Wearable computing device

ABSTRACT

The present disclosure describes a wearable computing device (WCD) in the form of a ring that can be worn on the finger of a human user.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/556,062, filed Nov. 28, 2014, entitled WEARABLE COMPUTING DEVICE, theentire disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference, whichclaims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/006,835,filed Jun. 2, 2014, entitled WEARABLE COMPUTING DEVICE and U.S.Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/910,201, filed Nov. 29, 2013,entitled FINGER RING DEVICE FOR ACTIVITY MONITORING OR FESTURAL INPUT,the entire disclosures of each of which applications is hereinincorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention is in the field of wearable electronic devices.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Wearable electronics are an emerging technology with many applicationsfor the wearer. They can improve lifestyles, ease access to technologyand help monitor activity within the wearer's body. However, manycurrent wearable electronics are bulky and can be intrusive or interferewith a person's daily life. In this regard, the wearer may not becomfortable wearing the device for extended periods of time.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This invention overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art by providinga wearable computing device (WCD) in the shape of a ring. The wearablecomputing device can be worn for extended periods of time and can takemany measurements and perform various functions because of its formfactor and position on the finger of a user.

One aspect of the disclosure provides a wearable computing device,comprising: an interior wall; an exterior wall; a flexible printedcircuit board disposed between the interior wall and the exterior wall;at least one component disposed on the flexible printed circuit board;and wherein at least one of the interior wall and the exterior walldefines a window that facilitates at least one of data transmission,battery recharge, and status indication.

In one example, the window comprises an internal window defined by theinterior wall.

In one example, the window comprises an exterior window defined by theexterior wall.

In one example, the window comprises a plurality of exterior windowsdefined by the exterior wall.

In one example, the plurality of exterior windows comprises a firstexterior window and a second exterior window, wherein the first exteriorwindow facilities battery charging and the second exterior windowfacilities data transmission.

In one example, at least one concentrated photovoltaic cell, an antenna,and at least one LED are accessible via the window.

Another aspect of the disclosure provides a wearable computing device,comprising: an internal housing portion configured to be disposed near afinger of a user; a flexible printed circuit board arranged around aportion of a circumference of an interior surface of the internalhousing; at least one component disposed on the flexible printed circuitboard; and an external housing portion configured to seal the at leastone component and the printed circuit board in an internal space definedby the interior surface of the internal housing.

In one example, the external housing portion comprises a substantiallytransparent external potting.

In one example, the at least one component comprises at least one LEDconfigured to emit at least one of visible light, infrared radiation,and ultraviolet radiation through the external potting.

In one example, the at least one component comprises a concentratedphotovoltaic cell configured to receive concentrated light through thetransparent external potting.

In one example, the flexible printed circuit board includes a pluralityof stiffener elements configured to engage with a correspondingplurality of flanges disposed on the internal housing portion.

Another aspect of the disclosure provides a wearable computing device,comprising: an external housing portion; a flexible printed circuitboard arranged around a portion of a circumference of an interiorsurface of the external housing; at least one component disposed on theflexible printed circuit board; and an internal housing portionconfigured to seal the at least one component and the printed circuitboard in an internal space defined by the interior surface of theexternal housing.

In one example, the internal housing portion comprises a substantiallytransparent internal potting.

In one example, the at least one component comprises at least one LEDconfigured to emit at least one of visible light, infrared radiation,and ultraviolet radiation through the internal potting.

In one example, the at least one component comprises a concentratedphotovoltaic cell configured to receive concentrated light through thetransparent internal potting.

In one example, the flexible printed circuit board includes a pluralityof stiffener elements configured to engage with a correspondingplurality of flanges disposed on the external housing portion.

Another aspect of the disclosure provides a system, comprising: awearable computing device, including a housing and a photovoltaicelement disposed at least partially within the housing; and a baseassembly, the base assembly including a concentrated light sourcedirected at the photovoltaic element.

In one example, the wearable computing device includes at least oneferrous element disposed within the housing, and wherein the baseassembly includes at least one magnetic element disposed therein.

In one example, the concentrated light source is arrangedcircumferentially around the wearable computing device when the wearablecomputing device is engaged with the base assembly.

In one example, the concentrated light source comprises at least one ofa laser diode and a light emitting diode (LED).

In one example, a housing of the WCD defines an opening through whichthe WCD is configured to receive concentrated light.

In one example, the base assembly comprises an optical element forfocusing concentrated light emitted from the concentrated light source.

In one example, the optical element comprises a lens and is selectedfrom the group consisting of concave, convex, plano-concave,plano-convex.

In one example, the WCD comprises at least one transparent pottingconfigured to allow concentrated light to pass therethrough.

In one example, the WCD is ring-shaped and the base assembly comprisesat least one post configured to engaged with a finger space of the WCD.

In one example, the photovoltaic cell comprises a plurality ofphotovoltaic cells.

Another aspect of the disclosure provides an enclosure for a wearablecomputing device, the enclosure comprising: a base defining a receptaclefor receiving the wearable computing; a lid configured to engage withthe base to substantially enclose the wearable computing device, the lidhaving an optical element configured to direct incident electromagneticradiation to a photovoltaic cell disposed on the wearable computingdevice to allow charging thereof.

In one example, the lid includes a plurality of vent holes that preventoverheating within the enclosure.

In one example, the optical element comprises a lens.

In one example, the lens has a focal length and wherein a distancebetween a central portion of the lens and the photovoltaic cell isgreater than or less than the focal length.

Another aspect of the disclosure provides a timepiece system,comprising: a timepiece having a substantially planar under surface; anda timepiece computing device adhered to the planar under surface, thetimepiece computing device being substantially cylindrical andcomprising: a processor; a memory; and at least one sensor.

Another aspect of the disclosure provides a wearable computing devicesystem, comprising: a wearable computing device; an attachment framecoupled to the wearable computing device; and an optical elementremovably coupled to the attachment frame, wherein the optical elementis configured to direct electromagnetic radiation to a photovoltaic celldisposed on a surface of the wearable computing device to allow forcharging of the wearable computing device.

In one example, the attachment frame is removably coupled to thewearable computing device.

In one example, the attachment frame engages with an inward-facingsurface of the wearable computing device.

Another aspect of the disclosure provides a method of identifying anauthorized user of a wearable computing device, comprising: illuminatinga portion of a skin surface of the user; imaging the portion of the skinsurface of the user to generate at least one first image; generating areference capillary map corresponding to the user based at least in parton the at least one image.

In one example, the method further includes rotating the wearablecomputing device during the illuminating and imaging steps.

In one example, the method further includes imaging the portion of theskin surface of the user to generate at least one second image; andcomparing the at least one second image to the reference capillary mapin order to authenticate the user.

Another aspect of the disclosure provides a method of navigating,comprising: gesturing in a first direction while wearing a wearablecomputing device; comparing the first direction to a predetermineddirection in a predetermined set of directions; providing feedback basedon the comparison of the first direction of the predetermined direction.

In one example, the gesture comprises pointing a finger and the firstdirection comprises a first heading.

Another aspect of the disclosure provides a method of regulatingtemperature, comprising: measuring a skin temperature of a user via afirst temperature sensor; measuring an ambient temperature via a secondtemperature sensor; comparing the skin temperature to a predeterminedthreshold temperature; and adjusting the ambient temperature based inpart on the comparison.

In one example, measuring the skin temperature comprises measuring theskin temperature via a first temperature sensor disposed at an inwardfacing surface of a wearable computing device.

In one example, measuring the ambient temperature comprises measuringthe ambient temperature via a second temperature sensor disposed at anoutward facing surface of the wearable computing device.

Another aspect of the disclosure provides a method for controllingappliances, comprising: identifying a position of a first appliance in aroom; gesturing a first gesture in a direction of the first appliance;identifying the direction of the first direction via a wearablecomputing device; issuing a controlling command to the first appliancebased in part on the identified direction of the gesture.

Another aspect of the disclosure provides a method of generating analert, comprising: authenticating a first wearer of a first wearablecomputing device as a first authenticated user; transmitting firstbiometric data associated with the first wearer; associating the firstbiometric data with a first profile associated with the first wearer ofthe first wearable computing device; comparing the first biometric datawith a group profile comprising aggregated biometric data from aplurality of distinct wearers of a plurality of distinct wearablecomputing devices; and generating an alert if the first biometric datafalls outside of a predetermined threshold set by the aggregatedbiometric data.

In one example, the biometric data comprises at least one of heart rate;ECG profile; blood sugar, and blood pressure.

In one example, the plurality of distinct wearers share a common trait,resulting in their aggregation into the group profile.

In one example, the common trait comprises at least one of: age, gender,profession, and location.

Another aspect of the disclosure provides a method of determine asampling rate of a wearable computing device, comprising: determining anactivity level of a wearer of a wearable computing device based at leastin part on data from at least one sensor disposed onboard the wearablecomputing device; comparing the activity level to a predeterminedactivity threshold; and increasing a first sensor sampling rate if theactivity level is above a predetermined activity threshold.

In one example, the method further includes decreasing the first sensorsampling rate if the activity level is below a predetermined activitythreshold.

In one example, the predetermined activity threshold comprises anacceleration measurement.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention description below refers to the accompanying drawings, ofwhich:

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a WCD illustrating an exterior windowin accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the WCD of FIG. 1A illustrating aninterior window in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 1C is a perspective view of an alternative WCD design of the ringof FIG. 1A in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 2 is an abstract functional diagram illustrating example componentswithin the WCD in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 3A is a view of an exterior window of a WCD with example componentsexposed in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 3B is a view of an interior window of a WCD with example componentsexposed in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 3C is a view of the exterior windows of an alternative WCD withexample components exposed in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of a WCD illustrating a battery and aflexible circuit which are configured to fit inside the housing of theWCD in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the flexible circuit of FIG. 4 inaccordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 6 is an exploded view of a WCD with an alternative chargingmechanism in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an alternative design of a WCD inaccordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the WCD of FIG. 7 illustrating anotheralternative charging mechanism in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a charging device for the ring stationin accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 9B is an abstract diagram illustrating a partial structure of thecharging station of FIG. 9A in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 10 is an example screenshot illustrating a user interface of amobile application coupled to the WCD and displaying fitness monitoringreadings in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 11 is an example screenshot illustrating a user interface of amobile application coupled to the WCD and displaying sensor readings(e.g., for calibration purposes) in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a wearable computing device (WCD)according to one or more aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 12B is a side view of a WCD according to one or more aspects of thedisclosure;

FIG. 12C is a front view of the WCD according to one or more aspects ofthe disclosure;

FIG. 12D is a cross section of the WCD along the line A-A of FIG. 12C;

FIG. 12E is a perspective view of the internal housing without externalpotting;

FIG. 12F is a perspective view of the internal housing with a portion ofthe external potting removed and showing one or more components andprinted circuit board (PCB);

FIG. 13 is a cross section of a WCD according to another aspect of thedisclosure;

FIG. 14A is a cross section of a WCD according to another aspect of thedisclosure;

FIG. 14B is a perspective view of the PCB and stiffener element of FIG.14A;

FIG. 14C is a perspective view of the PCB and stiffener element of FIG.14A;

FIG. 14D shows a cross section of the WCD at a point in time when thePCB is being inserted into the internal space and prior to theapplication of potting;

FIG. 14E is a cross section of the WCD of after a potting material hasbeen applied subsequent to the WCD of FIG. 14D;

FIG. 15A depicts a perspective view of a WCD according to another aspectof the disclosure;

FIG. 15B is an exploded view of the WCD;

FIG. 16A is an exploded view of a housing and a PCB of a WCD accordingto one or more aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 16B is a cross section of FIG. 16A along line B-B;

FIG. 16C is a perspective view of the WCD with potting material;

FIG. 17A depicts a cross section of a WCD employing charging byconcentrated light source according to one or more aspects of thedisclosure;

FIG. 17B depicts a cross section of a WCD employing charging byconcentrated light source according to another aspect of the disclosure;

FIG. 17C is a perspective view of a base assembly and WCD 700 accordingto one or more aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 17D depicts a perspective view of internal components of the baseassembly 750 and WCD 700 according to another aspect of the disclosure;

FIGS. 17E-F depict other CPV configurations according to one or moreaspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 17G is perspective view of a WCD and base assembly with a 1×3 CPVarrangement;

FIG. 18A depicts a cross section of a WCD 800 employing charging byconcentrated light source according to another of the disclosure;

FIG. 18B depicts a cross section of a WCD employing charging byconcentrated light source according to another of the disclosure;

FIG. 19A depicts a cross section of a WCD employing charging byconcentrated light source according to another of the disclosure;

FIG. 19B depicts a cross section of a WCD employing charging byconcentrated light source according to another of the disclosure;

FIG. 19C depicts a schematic diagram of magnets that can be used in aWCD and/or base assembly according to one or more aspects of thedisclosure;

FIG. 19D depicts a schematic diagram of magnets that can be used in aWCD and/or base assembly according to one or more aspects of thedisclosure

FIG. 19E is a perspective view of a WCD and a base assembly according toone or more aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 20A is a cross section of a WCD engaged with a base assembly 1050according to one or more aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 20B is a perspective view of a PCB 1040 b with a CPV 1030 b andferrous element 1020 b configuration according to one or more aspects ofthe disclosure;

FIG. 20C is a perspective view of a PCB with a CPV 1030 c and ferrouselement 1020 c configuration according to one or more aspects of thedisclosure;

FIG. 20D is a perspective view of a magnet and a concentrated lightsource 1070 d according to one or more aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 21A is a schematic view of a WCD showing components used foridentifying the wearer of the WCD;

FIGS. 21B-C are perspective views of a skin surface according to one ormore aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 22A is a perspective view of a user employing ECG monitoringaccording to one or more aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 22B is a view of a human with an electric pathway though his bodyaccording to one or more aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 22C is a perspective view of a WCD that can employ ECG monitoringaccording to one aspect of the disclosure;

FIG. 23A is a perspective view of the hand of a user in variouspositions employing the navigational features of the WCD;

FIG. 23B is a flow chart depicting a method of providing feedback to auser according to one or more aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 24A is a schematic diagram of a system 1400 for controlling anenvironment of a user according to one or more aspects of thedisclosure;

FIG. 24B is a side view of a WCD showing one or more temperaturessensors according to one or more aspects of the disclosure

FIG. 24C is a system diagram of a system for controlling home appliancesaccording to one or more aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 24D is a flow chart depicting a method of controlling homeappliances according to one or more aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the hand of a user employing atwo-factor authentication technique according to one or more aspects ofthe disclosure;

FIG. 26A is a schematic view of a charging apparatus for charging theWCD according to one or more aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 26B shows a WCD including an RF antenna and charging circuitry;

FIG. 26C is a block diagram of the charging apparatus according to oneaspect of the disclosure;

FIG. 26D is a schematic view of the charging apparatus of FIG. 26A andthe WCD of FIG. 26B according to one or more aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 27A is a pictorial diagram and FIG. 27B is a block diagram of a WCDemploying flash storage according to one or more aspects of thedisclosure;

FIG. 28A is a schematic diagram of one or more WCDs performing proximityfunctions according to one or more aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 28B is a schematic diagram of one or more WCDs performing proximityfunctions according to one or more aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 29A is a flow chart depicting a method of initiating gesture inputaccording to one or more aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 29B is a chart showing acceleration vs. time as measured by theaccelerometer of the WCD;

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a WCD 2000 employing a reset function;

FIG. 31A is a perspective view of a WCD including an LED indicatoraccording to one or more aspects of the disclosure;

FIGS. 31B and 31C are cross sections along line C-C of a WCD employingan LED indicator according to one or more aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 32 is flow chart depicting a method of communicating with a nearfield communication (NFC) device according to one or more aspects of thedisclosure;

FIG. 33A depicts a perspective view of a WCD assembly according to oneor more aspects of the disclosure;

FIGS. 33B-D depict exploded views of the WCD assembly of FIG. 33A;

FIG. 33E depicts a cross sectional view of the WCD assembly along A-A;

FIGS. 34A-B depict a WCD assembly according to one or more aspects ofthe disclosure;

FIG. 35A depicts an enclosure or case for storing a WCD according to oneor more aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 35B is a cross sectional view of the assembled enclosure of FIG.35A along the line B-B;

FIG. 35C depicts a cross sectional view of the assembled enclosure ofFIG. 35B along line A-A;

FIG. 36 depicts an enclosure including air vents according to one ormore aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 37 depicts a method of sizing a finger according to one or moreaspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 38 is a pictorial diagram showing a plurality of image perspectivesof a user's hand;

FIG. 39 depicts a sizing tool for sizing the finger of a user;

FIG. 40 depicts a sizing tool for sizing the finger of a user accordingto an alternate example;

FIG. 41 depicts yet another alternate example of a sizing tool forsizing the finger of a user;

FIG. 42 depicts a method of monitoring activity according to one or moreaspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 43 depicts a method of determining whether a user is wearing glovesaccording to one or more aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 44 depicts a method of securing data onboard the WCD according toone or more aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 45A is a timepiece system according to one or more aspects of thedisclosure;

FIG. 45B is a bottom view of the TCD;

FIG. 46 depicts a WCD with a pair of LED indicators disposed at aninward-facing portion of the WCD;

FIG. 47A is a system for generating and managing alerts according to oneor more aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 47B depicts a block process diagram for generating and managingalerts according to one or more aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 47C is a flow chart depicting a method for generating and managingalerts according to one or more aspects of the disclosure

FIG. 48A is a method for variable sampling according to one or moreaspects of the disclosure; FIGS. 48B and 48 c are graphs depicting oneor more aspects of the sample method of FIG. 48A; and

FIG. 49 is a diagrammatic representation of a machine in the exampleform of a computer system within which a set of instructions, forcausing the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologiesdiscussed herein, may be executed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure describes a wearable computing device (WCD) thatenables a wearable fitness monitor(s)/computer(s) which is suitable forprolonged usage with accurate results. The WCD can be in the form of aring that can be worn on the finger of a human (or animal) user.Although the WCD of the present disclosure is depicted as a ring thatcan be worn on the finger of a user, other shapes, designs, and formfactors can be utilized for the WCD. For example, the WCD can be in theform of a wrist band, bracelet, necklace, earring, or any other type ofwearable accessory. In this regard, references to the finger of a userin the present application can be considered to apply to other portionsof a human body depending on the form of the WCD, such as wrist, neck,ear, etc.

The term “coupled” as used herein means connected directly to orconnected through one or more intervening components or circuits. Any ofthe signals provided over various buses described herein may betime-multiplexed with other signals and provided over one or more commonbuses. Additionally, the interconnection between circuit elements orsoftware blocks may be shown as buses or as single signal lines. Each ofthe buses may alternatively be a single signal line, and each of thesingle signal lines may alternatively be buses, and a single line or busmight represent any one or more of a myriad of physical or logicalmechanisms for communication (e.g., a network) between components. Thepresent embodiments are not to be construed as limited to specificexamples described herein but rather to include within their scope allembodiments defined by the appended claims.

FIG. 1A is a perspective view 100 of a WCD 110 illustrating an exteriorwindow 120 in accordance with some embodiments, and FIG. 1B is aperspective view 102 of the WCD 110 of FIG. 1A illustrating an interiorwindow 130.

As previously mentioned, it is recognized in the present disclosure thatconventional wearable fitness monitors such as clip-on devices,wristbands, or watch-type monitors still often suffer from inaccuracymainly because they lack constant and consistent ways to read from thebody areas they aim to monitor. It can also be an extra burden for theperson to remember and wear such conventional fitness monitors each timethe person perform exercises in order to create an accurate historytracking the exercise activities.

Accordingly, the present embodiments of the WCD 110 can function asfitness monitors/computer which is suitable for prolonged usage so as tocreate accurate results. In addition or as an alternative to fitnessmonitoring, as will be discussed in more detail below, the WCD 110 canfunction as a remote input device through, for example, gesturerecognition. In some embodiments, the WCD 110 can further function as asleep monitor, a heart rate sensor, a cardiac monitor a body temperaturedetector, or the like. It is noted that, for those embodiments which canfunction as a cardiac monitor (e.g., that measures electrocardiogram(EKG)), it may be necessary to establish a closed loop (e.g., for theelectrical measurement of EKG) across the heart. As such, in some ofthose embodiments, a separate conductive pad can be coupled to the WCD110 so that a user can pinch the pad with fingers on an opposite hand,

Specifically, in some embodiments of the present disclosure, the WCD 110can be worn by the user (e.g., on a finger) for fitness, physicalactivity, biological data monitoring as well as for gestural input orother suitable purposes. As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the WCD 110 caninclude the exterior window 120 on its exterior wall for input/outputdata transmission and reception, battery recharge, or status indication.The WCD 110 can also include the interior window 130 on its interiorwall for various monitoring or sensing activities. The form factor ofthe WCD 110 allows it to be worn for prolonged hours with constant andconsistent contact with the skin area, thereby creating a more reliableand extended recording (e.g., as compared to aforementioned conventionalfitness monitors) of the user's fitness activity, physical exercise, aswell as health information such as heart rates and body temperature.More implementation details regarding the WCD 110 are discussed below.

FIG. 1C is a perspective view of an alternative WCD design 112 of theWCD 110 of FIG. 1A in accordance with some embodiments. As shown in FIG.1C, the WCD 112 includes a second exterior window 124 in addition to afirst exterior window 122. The two exterior windows 122 and 124 caninclude spacing between the two windows 122 and 124 so that themechanical strength of the housing structure of the WCD 112 may bestronger than that of the WCD 110, which is shown to include one singleexterior window 120. Further, in some embodiments, radio antennas (e.g.,Bluetooth) or other sensitive circuitry can be positioned in the secondexterior window 124 away from the first exterior window 122 so thatquality of reception may be improved.

FIG. 2 is an abstract functional diagram 200 illustrating examplecomponents within the WCD (e.g., WCD 110) in accordance with someembodiments. As shown in diagram 200, the WCD 110 can include aprocessor module 210, a plurality of sensor modules 220, a statusindicator module 230, a power generation and management module 240, acommunication module 250, a memory 260, and miscellaneous modules 270(e.g., a real-time clock (RTC) crystal oscillator as illustrated in FIG.2). The WCD 110 can also include a battery module 280 that provideselectrical power for the WCD 110. In some embodiments, the battery 280can be of a lithium-polymer type or a zinc-polymer type. It is notedthat modules illustrated in diagram 200 are for purposes of facilitatinga better understanding of the present embodiments; other suitablemodules may be included in the WCD 110 and are not shown for simplicity.As used herein, the term “components” is considered to generally includeany of the modules depicted and/or described in FIG. 2, as well as anyother modules described herein.

It is noted that the aforementioned modules are intended for purposes ofenabling the present embodiments, rather than limiting. As such, aperson of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the presentdisclosure covers apparent alternatives, modifications, and equivalents(e.g., combining or separating the modules) made to the techniquesdescribed herein. For example, in some embodiments, a portion of thecommunication module 250 (e.g., the Bluetooth Chip as shown in FIG. 2)can be combined into the processor module 210. For another example, oneor more modules herein can be combined into one to form asystem-on-the-chip (SOC).

The processor module 210 can have generic characteristics similar togeneral purpose processors or may be application specific integratedcircuitry that provides arithmetic and control functions to the WCD 110.The processor can be any type of processor, such as a processormanufactured by AMtel, Freescale, Nordic Semiconductor, Intel®, AMD®, oran ARM® type processor. The processor module 210 can include a dedicatedcache memory (not shown for simplicity). The processor module 210 iscoupled to all modules 220-270 in the WCD 110, either directly orindirectly, for data and control signal transmission.

The memory 260 may include any suitable type of storage deviceincluding, for example, ROM, such as Mask ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM;NVRAM, such as Flash memory; Early stage NVRAM, such as nvSRAM, FeRAM,MRAM, or PRAM, or any other type, such as, CBRAM, SONOS, RRAM, Racetrackmemory, NRAM, Millipede memory, or FJG. Other types of data memory canbe employed as such are available in the form factor desired.

In addition to storing instructions which can be executed by theprocessor module 210, the memory 260 can also store data generated fromthe processor module 210. It is noted that the memory 260 can be anabstract representation of a generic storage environment. According tosome embodiments, the memory 260 may be comprised of one or more actualmemory chips or modules. In some embodiments, the memory 260 canfunction as a temporary storage (e.g., for firmware updates, and/or foravoiding accidental malfunctions (such as so-called “bricking”)).

In accordance with one or more embodiments, the sensor modules 220 caninclude various sub-modules for the WCD 110 to perform differentmonitoring or sensing activities. A view 302 of the interior window(e.g., window 130) of a WCD (e.g., WCD 110) with example componentsexposed is shown in FIG. 3B. As shown in the example of FIG. 3B, thesensor modules 220 can include a temperature sensor 320 a, a red lightemitting diode (LED) 320 b, a light sensor 320 c, and an infra-red LED320 d. Among the sensors in the sensor modules 220, those sensors (e.g.,sensors 320 a-320 d) which are directly related to biological signmonitoring can be configured and positioned in a way that is close tothe skin (e.g., facing the interior window 130 of the WCD 110). Althoughnot shown in FIG. 3B for simplicity, the sensor modules 220 can furtherinclude sensors that are not directly related to biological signmonitoring; some examples of these sensors include accelerometers,gyroscopes, vibration, sensors (e.g., a magnetometer or a digitalcompass), or other suitable sensors (e.g., for gesture recognition). Themagnetometer can measure the strength and/or direction of a prevailingmagnetic field. In this regard, the magnetometer can be used duringglobal positioning and/or navigation. In particular, the magnetometercan be used to measure a directional heading when the WCD is in motionand can supplement position data where the WCD is out of communicationrange. In one or more embodiments, the accelerometers in the sensormodules 220 can detect movements in multiple (e.g., 3) dimensions oraxes. The accelerometer can measure force of acceleration of the WCD andcan measure gestures performed by a user while wearing the WCD. In otherexamples, the accelerometer can detect acceleration of the user whilewearing the WCD. This can permit tracking of activity level, such assteps taken or number of laps swum in a pool.

The temperature sensor can be any type of sensor that detectstemperature, such as a thermistor, PTC, NTC, etc. In another example,the temperature sensor can use IR light emitted from an object tocalculate a surface temperature of the object in a manner clear to thoseof ordinary skill in the art.

Together, the processor module 210 and the sensor modules 220 can enablethe WCD 110 to perform multiple functions including, for example,pedometer, sleep monitor (e.g., which monitors sleep quality), heartrate sensor, pulse oximetry, skin (and in select embodiments, ambient)temperature. In addition, some embodiments of the WCD 110 can furtherfunction as a gesture input device. In particular, the presentembodiments recognize that the WCD 110 can detect finger motions orgestures which may be difficult for conventional fitness sensors todetect, such as a tap, a snap, a knock on the table, and the like. Insome embodiments, the WCD 110 can utilize the accelerometer to measurethe activity level (e.g., arm movement) in conjunction with the measuredheart rate to determine if the user is walking horizontally, running,swimming, or climbing stairs. Other activities can be identified by theWCD 110 may include biking or sleeping.

In some embodiments, the WCD 110 can also be programmed to learnparticular gestures or physical exercise from the user using, forexample, a training mode. For example, the user can instruct (e.g.,using a computer or a mobile device of the user) the WCD 110 to enterthe training mode and perform the gesture or physical exercise; the WCD110 can record the readings from the sensor modules 220, recognizepatterns therefrom, and store the result in, for example the memory 260,so that such gesture or exercise can be recognized by the WCD 110 afterthe training. The WCD 110 can be configured (e.g., via a mobileapplication running on a mobile device of the user) so that therecognized gestures can perform functions designated by the user, suchas clicks, swipes, unlocks, or media player controls. In one embodiment,the WCD 110 can include near field communication (NFC) chips so thatcertain functions (e.g., unlocking a smart phone) can be performed whenthe WCD 110 touches upon or otherwise be detected by another NFC device.In some embodiments, the unlocking function of the WCD 110 can alsounlock a user device (e.g., a phone) via the communication module 250(e.g., Bluetooth) by the WCD 110 transmitting a proper unlock code.

Moreover, the WCD 110 can function as a key or a control device forkeyless access to home, automobile, or other suitable userauthentication processes. The WCD 110 can also be integrated with gamesand game consoles so that it can function as an input device to thosegames and consoles. In some embodiments, the WCD 110 can be adapted foruse in medical and home health monitoring, or as a transportation safetydevice (e.g., that broadcasts emergency messages to relevantauthorities). Additional examples of sensors/functionalities of the WCD110 can include an inertial measurement unit (IMU) (e.g., for morecomplex gesture recognition, a near-infrared (NIR) spectrometer (e.g.,for measuring light absorption and deriving blood glucose/bloodalcohol/CO2 content), a Galvanic skin response sensor (e.g., formeasuring sweat/nervousness), an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), and soforth.

In some embodiments, the processor module 210 can determine (e.g., basedon identified physical activities, routine pattern, and/or time) afrequency at which one or more sensors in the sensor modules 220 shouldoperate. Because it is recognized in the present disclosure that theheart rate of a human being typically does not vary too widely (e.g.,beyond a certain percentage of what has been previously measured), insome embodiments, the WCD 110 can automatically adjust the sensormodules 220 (e.g., to slow down) so as to save power. More specifically,some embodiments of the WCD 110 can include a phase-locked loop or logicto predict the pulse width by determining lower and upper ranges inwhich the heart rate is predicted to be, thus only powering up thesensor modules 220 at the time of the predicted heartbeats. For oneexample, if the WCD 110 determines that the user is at sleep (e.g.,based on the heart rate, the body temperature, together with themovements detected by the accelerometer and/or the vibration detector),the WCD 110 can slow down its heart rate detection frequency (e.g., from1 measurement per second to 1 measurement per 10 seconds) and skip themeasurement of several heartbeats because it is unlikely that the heartrate will change drastically during that period. Conversely, if the WCD110 determines that the user is performing a high intensity physicalexercise, the WCD 110 can increase the frequency of monitoring andrecording of the sensor modules 220.

In accordance with one or more embodiments, the WCD 110 also includesvarious modules coupled to the processor module 210 for, by way ofexample but not limitation, input/output data transmission, batteryrecharge, or status indication. A view 300 of the exterior window (e.g.,window 120) of a WCD (e.g., WCD 110) with example components exposed isshown in FIG. 3A. As shown in the example of FIG. 3A, the modulesconfigured to face the exterior window 120 of the WCD 110 can includeparts from the status indicator module 230, the power generation andmanagement module 240, and the communication module 250.

Specifically, one embodiment of the WCD 110 includes the statusindicator module 230 coupled to the processor module 210 to indicatevarious statuses. In some embodiments, the status indicator module 230includes a light emitting diode (LED) 330, such as shown in FIG. 3A. TheLED 330 can be a single red/green/blue (RGB) LED. In other embodiments,the status indicator module 230 can include other suitable types ofindicator devices including, for example, a single color LED, anelectrophoretic ink (or “e-ink”) display, a persistent display, or thelike. In accordance with some embodiments, the WCD 110 can utilize theindicator module 230 (e.g., via the RGB LED 330 through the exteriorwindow 130) to visually communicate with the user. For example, a redcolor can be displayed (e.g., for a predetermined period of time) by theLED 330 that the WCD 110 needs to be recharged, and a green color can bedisplayed to indicate that the WCD 110 is fully charged. For anotherexample, a blue color can be displayed when the communication module 250is in use. In one or more embodiments, the user can program a fitnessgoal (e.g., a target heart rate) to the WCD 110 so that, for example, agreen color can be displayed when the heart rate is below the target, ayellow color can be displayed when the target is reached, and a redcolor can be displayed when the heart rate is above a certain percentageof the set target. Some embodiments of the WCD 110 include thecommunication module 250 for wireless data transmission. Particularly,in some embodiments, the communication module 250 includes one Bluetoothchip and a Bluetooth antenna 350, such as shown in FIG. 3A. One or moreembodiments of the WCD 110 also provides the capability of storingactivity logs (e.g., in the memory 260). More specifically, fitnessactivities, exercise histories, as well as recorded biological signssuch as heart rate and body temperature, can be stored onboard in thememory 260 of the WCD 110. Each data entry in the activity logs can betime-stamped using, for example, an onboard real-time clock (e.g., whichmay be included in miscellaneous modules 270). For power saving andother purposes, the activity log can be downloaded (e.g., via thecommunication module 250) when requested by the user. In otherembodiments, the activity log can be pushed (e.g., via email or othersuitable means) by the WCD 110 to a user device at a time designated bythe user. In some embodiments, the memory 260 can store up to a fullweek worth of activity logs.

The WCD 110 can include the power generation and management module 240for recharging the battery 280 and for providing electrical power tovarious modules 210-270 in the WCD 110. Particularly, in someembodiments, the power generation and management module 240 includes oneor more concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) cells 340, such as shown in FIG.3A. The CPV cells 340 can be high-efficiency tandem solar cells and canbe attached on the flexible printed circuit (e.g., circuit 415, 515).Because the small form factor of the embodiments of the WCD 110, CPVcells 340, which can absorb more light energy from a wider spectrum oflight than the traditional solar cells, are used. In some embodiments,multiple (e.g., 3) CPV cells 340 can be configured in series to providesufficient voltage and/or current for charging the battery 280.

According to some embodiments, the WCD can include one or more sensingor imaging devices that can be any type of device capable of detectingelectromagnetic radiation, such as visible light, IR, NIR, UV, etc. Inone example, the device is an imaging device, such as a CMOS or CCDcamera.

According to some embodiments, the WCD 110 can be placed or docked intoa charging station for recharging. A perspective view 900 of an examplecharging station 910 for the WCD 110 is shown in FIG. 9A. The chargingstation 910 can have concentrated light source circumferentially aroundthe WCD 110 so that the user does not have to be concerned with whetherthe WCD 110 is facing the right direction for charging. Some embodimentsof the charging station 910 can include a light distribution means thattakes a single light source and distributes the light all around. Anabstract diagram illustrating a partial structure of the lightdistribution means inside the charging device of FIG. 9A is shown inFIG. 9B. It is noted that, even with the charging station 910, for someembodiments, regular outdoor sunlight or other ambient light source canstill function as a secondary source of energy so that the CPV cells 340on the WCD 110 can extend the operational time provided by the battery280.

Additionally or alternatively, energy source attached to the powergeneration and management module 240 can be passive; for example, someembodiments provides that a clip with a concentrator lens can beattached to the WCD 110 in a way such that the power generation andmanagement module 240 can charge the battery 280 using natural sunlight.In an alternative embodiment, gemstone(s) (e.g., sapphire, diamond, orother suitable materials) in the shape of a dome or with facetedprotrusion can be configured to concentrate/magnify light energy whilealso serving as a decorative feature.

In some alternative embodiments, the power generation and managementmodule 240 can include electromagnetic induction charging coil so that aWCD (e.g., ring 610) can be charged using an inductive charger. FIG. 6shows an exploded view 600 of such alternative embodiment of WCD withthe inductive charging mechanism including the charging coil 640, aswell as battery 680, housing 612, and rigid-flex PCBA 615. However, itis noted that there may be a need to manufacture the inductive chargingcoil 640 in different sizes that correspond to different ring sizes.Further, it is noted that the efficiency of the electromagneticinduction charging mechanism may be adversely affected by the adoptionof a metallic housing. Additionally or alternatively, to avoid multiplesized coils mounted to the edge of the ring, the coil can be placed onthe inner or outer sides of the ring by positioning the coil beneath awindow in the metal housing of the ring.

In order to achieve optimal power management of the WCD, one or more ofthe components can be selected to minimize power usage. For example, aprocessor, memory, or any other component can be selected based on ratedpower usage. In one example, it may be desirable to select componentsthat draw current on the order of microamps in order to extend thebattery life of the WCD and to allow the WCD to perform health/activitymonitoring functions between charging sessions.

In still some other alternative embodiments, the power generation andmanagement module 240 can include thermoelectric generator (TEG) modulesso that a WCD (e.g., WCD 710, 810) can be charged by the differencebetween the body temperature and the ambient temperature. FIG. 7 is aperspective view 700 of such alternative design, and FIG. 8 is anexploded view 800 of the WCD 710 of FIG. 7. Also shown in FIGS. 7 and 8is an alternative design of the housing for the WCD where the ringincludes an outer ring 812 a, an inner ring 812 b, and insulators 814 aand 814 b. However, it is noted that utilizing TEGs for charging thebattery may be less than ideal since the difference between bodytemperature and ambient temperature might not be great enough to fullycharge the battery, and that in many occasions (e.g., during sleep), thetemperature difference needed for TEG to generate electricity mayquickly disappear (e.g., since the WCD 710, 810 may be covered insidethe comforter).

The battery can be any type of battery, such as a rechargeable battery.The battery can be a thin, flexible lithium ceramic chemistry battery.In another example, the battery can be a circular formed lithium polymeror lithium ion battery. The battery can provide power to any of thecomponents described above. In one example, the battery can be a lithiumcell integrated directly with the flexible PCB described above. Otherimplementations can integrated the battery directly onto the housing toreduce the volume of space taken up by battery packaging.

The WCD can also include one or more polymer or piezo actuators forproviding appropriate haptic or physical feedback and alerts to a userwhile the user is wearing the ring. The piezo actuator can also provideaudible feedback to a user.

As previously mentioned, the WCD 110 can be used with a softwareapplication (e.g., a mobile phone application for the Apple iOS or theGoogle Android OS) which can run on the user's computing device (e.g., amobile device such as a smart phone). Specifically, the softwareapplication can facilitate the mobile device of the user to couple tothe WCD 110 (e.g., via the communication module 250) for datacommunication, such as downloading activity logs, changing configurationand preferences, training the WCD. The software application can alsogenerate a user interface showing the results or readings from thehealth and fitness tracking performed by the WCD 110. FIG. 10 is anexample screenshot illustrating such user interface 1000 displayingfitness monitoring readings in accordance with some embodiments.

Further, the WCD 110 can be used for gesture input, and the softwareapplication can facilitate the user to customize gesture input andcontrol. FIG. 11 is an example screenshot illustrating such userinterface 1100 displaying sensor readings (e.g., for calibrationpurposes) in accordance with some embodiments. In one or moreembodiments, the WCD 110 can also be used directly with other Bluetoothenabled devices such as electronic locks or keyless car entry. In otherexamples, the WCD 110 can also control other devices via a smartphoneand other Wireless LAN enabled devices such as home automation systems.

FIG. 3C is a view 304 of two exterior windows of an alternative WCD(e.g., WCD 112 of FIG. 3C) with example components exposed in accordancewith some embodiments. The components 330, 340, and 350 shown in FIG. 3Cfunction similarly to those components described in FIG. 3A. However,some components (e.g., antenna 350) can be positioned to face adifferent exterior window than the exterior window the rest of thecomponents face. This may increase the mechanical strength of thehousing structure of the ring, and/or may reduce signal interferenceamong the components.

FIG. 4 is an exploded view 400 showing an exemplary WCD 410 (e.g., WCD110) illustrating a battery 480 and a flexible circuit 415 which areconfigured to fit inside a housing 412 of the WCD 410. It is recognizedby the present disclosure that a human being's finger can come invarious different sizes and so should the WCD 410. In order to reducethe cost of manufacturing different sizes of printed circuits, in someembodiments, the modules 210-270 (of FIG. 2) are formed on a flexible orrigid-flex printed circuit (FPC) board, an example 500 of which is shownas FPC 515 in FIG. 5. In particular, one or more embodiments providethat the FPC 515 and the battery 480 are not specific to a ring size,and that the same circuitry and/or battery can fit a multitude of sizes.

According to some embodiments, the WCD 410 provides a desirable formfactor for a user to wear it for a prolonged period of time. The edgesand the shape of the WCD 410 can be configured in a way that iscomfortable and ergonomic; for example, the finished parts of theembodiments are to be free from burrs and sharp edges. The materialwhich forms the housing portion of the WCD 410 can include medical grademetallic alloys that reduce the likelihood of allergic reactions.Examples of the housing material include stainless steel, tungstencarbide, titanium alloy, silver, platinum or gold.

In the examples shown in FIG. 4, the U-shape of the ring housing 412allows for the flexible PCB 415 to be inserted into the edge of the WCD410. The windows (e.g., windows 120, 130) on the walls of the WCD 410can align with the operating circuitry to allow, for example, batterycharging, Bluetooth connection, and user feedback LED/micro display onthe outer wall, and biological feedback sensors (e.g., pulse oximetry,temperature sensor) on the inner wall. In one or more embodiments, theWCD 410 can be completely sealed using potting epoxy. The sealing epoxycan be transparent to allow light to pass through for the CPVs andsensors. In some embodiments, the WCD 410 can be potted with twodifferent compounds. In these embodiments, the body of the WCD 410 canbe filled with clear material, and the edge of the WCD 410 can be filledwith an opaque material so that different colors can be incorporated(e.g., as a decorative element). It is noted that sealing the assemblyusing potting epoxy can also bring the additional benefit of making theWCD 410 completely or almost completely waterproof as well as increasingthe structural rigidity of the WCD 410.

I. INTERNAL HOUSING/EXTERNAL POTTING

FIG. 12A is a perspective view and FIG. 12B is a side view of a WCD 1200according to one or more aspects of the disclosure. The WCD 1200 can bein the shape of a ring and can be worn on any of the five fingers(including the thumb) of (typically) a human user. In this regard, theWCD 1200 can define an interior diameter d₁ and exterior diameter d₂.The interior diameter d₁ can be defined as the distance between opposingpoints on the interior surface of the ring, with the interior surfacebeing the portion of the WCD facing the finger of a user while thedevice is worn by the user. The interior surface of the WCD cangenerally define a finger space for receiving the finger of the user.The exterior diameter d₂ can be defined as the diameter between opposingpoints on the exterior surface of the ring, with the exterior surfacebeing the portion of the WCD opposed to the interior surface and facingaway from the finger of the user.

The interior diameter d₁ and exterior diameter d₂ can be any size toaccommodate any finger size. In one example, d₂ is determined by d₁ plusa thickness of any components and/or flexible circuit boards disposedwithin the WCD. Additionally, although depicted as being circular, thefinger space of the WCD 1200 can be any shape, such as ovular,elliptical, or the like, to accommodate users with atypical fingerprofiles. In these examples, the dimensions of the interior and/orexterior diameter may be measured according to other variables, such aslength, width, major diameter, minor diameter, etc. By way ofnon-limiting example, the WCD interior diameter d₁ (the diametergenerally defining the ring size) can be in an approximate range of 12mm to 24 mm so as to accommodate finger sizes ranging from a small childto a larger adult, and on any acceptable finger, including the thumb.The exterior diameter d₂ can also be any reasonable size or shape, andcan define an approximate range of between 18 mm and 30 mm. Likewise,the thickness between diameters d₁ and d₂ can vary widely, but cantypically reside in an approximate range of 1.5 mm to 3 mm. The width WRof the WCD along the direction of finger extension (finger longitudinaldirection) is widely variable, and can be selected, in part toaccommodate internal and external components. In a non-limiting example,the width WR is in a range of approximately 3 mm to 8 mm.

The WCD 1200 can include an overall housing 1210 that includes aninternal housing 1212 and an external potting or encapsulant 1214.Together, the internal housing 1212 and external potting 1214 combine toform the overall form factor of the WCD 1200, in addition to providing ahousing for one or more electronic components stored within the housing1210 of the WCD 1200, as will be described in greater detail below.

The internal housing 1212 can be formed of any material, such as anonconductive material, a conductive material, a ferrous material and/ora nonferrous metal, composite material (e.g. carbon-fiber and/or glassfiber composite) a dielectric material, or a combination of any of theabove. In one example, the material of the inner housing 1212 isconductive and nonferrous, such as aluminum, titanium, or stainlesssteel. In other examples, the internal housing can be formed of apolymer, such as plastic. The external potting 1214 can be formed of anymaterial, solid or gelatinous, that can provide resistance to shockand/or vibration and can prevent moisture and/or debris from enteringthe housing 1210 of the WCD 1200, such as silicone, epoxy, polyesterresin or any other polymer.

In one example, the external potting 1214 can be transparent. In thisregard, the transparent external potting can allow electromagneticradiation, such as visible, IR, or UV light sources from inside thehousing 1210 to pass through the external potting 1214 without the needof a window or discontinuity in the external potting 1214 and withoutchanging the optical properties of the radiation. In the same vein,electromagnetic radiation sources, such as visible, IR, or UV light,external to the housing can pass through the external potting 1214 andcan be detected by, sensed by, or fall incident upon internal componentsof the WCD 1200 without the need for a window or discontinuity in thehousing and without changing the optical properties of the radiation. Inanother example, the external potting 1214 can be tinted. The tint canbe cosmetic and can prevent the internal components of the WCD to bevisible by the user. In this regard, depending on the tint, opticalproperties of light passing therethough may be slightly changed. Forexample, certain colors of the light can be filtered and can result indecreased power transmission. The above description regarding externalpotting 1214 can be applied to any of the pottings described below.

The internal housing 1212 can define a window 1216. In one example, theinternal housing is formed of a material that completely or partiallyprevents light (or other electromagnetic radiation) from passing throughthe internal housing 1212. In this regard, the internal housing 1212 candefine the window 1216 to allow for such radiation to pass through thehousing 1212. As shown, the window 1216 can be generallyelliptical-shaped, but can be any other suitable shape according toother examples, such as rectangular, circular, ovular, etc. Since thewindow 116 is defined by the internal housing 1212, the window 1216 canface the finger of the user while the user is wearing the WCD 1200,which can provide many advantageous features and implementations, aswill be described in greater detail below.

FIG. 12C is a front view of the WCD and FIG. 12D is a cross section ofthe WCD 1200 along the line A-A of FIG. 12C. As shown, the internalhousing 1212 can have a generally U-shaped internal surface 1212 a toaccommodate one or more internal components and can define a pair offlanges 1212 b and 1212 c. The external potting 1214 can extend betweenthe flanges 1212 b and 1212 c of the internal housing to provide aninternal space 1220 to accommodate one or more components. By virtue ofthe external potting 1214, the internal space 1220 defined by theinternal surface 1212 a and the external potting 1214 can behermetically sealed, thereby preventing debris, dust, moisture, or anyother unwanted fluids or materials from interacting with the internalcomponents of the WCD 1200. Although not depicted, the internalcomponents can reside within the internal space 1220, and the externalpotting 1214 can be disposed immediately atop the components to providethe seal.

FIG. 12E is a perspective view of the internal housing 1212 withoutexternal potting 1214. As shown, the internal surface 1212 a defines agenerally U-shaped surface for receiving the components.

FIG. 12F is a perspective view of the internal housing 1212 with aportion of the external potting 1214 removed and showing one or morecomponents 1230 and printed circuit board (PCB) 1240. The components andPCB can be constructed as flex circuits, thereby allowing the components1230 and PCB 1240 to be geometrically configured within the ring shapedinternal space 1220. The PCB 1240 can be any type of flexible materialclear to those of skill, such as polyimide, PEEK, etc. Additionally, thePCB could be rigid-flex whereby panels of RF4 are connected togetherwith a flexible substrate.

As shown, the PCB 1240 and the components 1230 can be disposed withinthe internal space 1220 generally defined by the internal surface 1220 aand the flanges 1220 b-c. The PCB 1240 can define one or more foldingregions 1242 that allow the PCB 1240 to conform to the circumferenceand/or perimeter of the internal surface 1212 a. The PCB 1240 can extendaround at least a portion, or up to an entire circumference, of theinternal surface 1212 a. In one example, the size of the internaldiameter d₁ of the WCD can determine the portion of the internal surface1212 a around which the PCB 1240 extends. Illustratively, for a largerring size and a larger internal diameter d₁, the PCB 1240 can extendonly a portion (an arc) of the overall circumference, while for smallerring sizes a greater portion (arc) of the circumference can be employedto accommodate PCB 1240 and the internal components 1230. The adjacentportions of PCB can form an arc angle therebetween by virtue of thefolding regions disposed therebetween, allowing for the PCB to beconform to the internal surface 1212 a.

II. EXTERNAL HOUSING/INTERNAL POTTING

FIG. 13 is a cross section of a WCD 1300 according to another aspect ofthe disclosure and illustrative embodiments. In this example, the WCD1300 includes a housing 1310 that includes an external housing 1312 andan internal potting or encapsulant 1314. The external housing 1312includes an internal surface 1312 a that has a generally C-shaped crosssection—but alternate cross section shapes, such shapes with an externalnotch or groove. The external housing includes flanges 1312 b-c thatextend toward each other, beyond portions of the internal surface 1312a, to define a partially enclosed internal space 1320. In an assembledstate, the WCD 1300 can include a battery 1330, a PCB 1340, andcomponents 1350, which can be at least partially or completely disposedwithin the partially enclosed internal space 1320. The internal potting1314 can extend between the flanges 1312 b-c and can seal the partiallyenclosed internal space 1320. The components can be encapsulated by theinternal potting 1314. The PCB 1340 and components 1350 can extend alongan inner circumference of the internal surface 1312 a

Illustratively, the external housing 1312 can be formed of the samematerials as the internal housing 1212 described above, and the internalpotting 1314 can be formed of the same materials as the external potting1214 described above. As also described above, the internal potting 1314can be transparent and the external housing 1312 can define one or morewindows according to one or more aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 14A is a cross section of a WCD according to another aspect of thedisclosure and illustrative embodiment. In this example, the WCD 1400includes a housing 1410, internal surface 1412 a, an internal orexternal housing 1412, an internal or external potting 1414, an internalspace 1420, a battery 1430, a flexible circuit 1440, and one or morecomponents 1450. This example is similar to the examples described abovewith respect to FIGS. 12 and 13, except the addition of a stiffenerelement 1442 and the flanges 1412 b-c extend further into the space 1420toward one another such that the flanges 1412 b-c overlap with thestiffener element 1442.

FIG. 14B is a perspective view of the PCB and stiffener element of FIG.14A. As shown in FIG. 14B, the stiffener element 1442 extends beyond anoverall width w of the PCB 1440 and extends wider than a distancebetween flanges 1412 b-c. The stiffener element is disposed betweenfolding regions 1444. The PCB 1440 can include one or more stiffenerelements 1442 attached thereto, and the elements 1442 can be disposedperiodically (in separated intervals) along a length l of the PCB 1440.As shown in FIG. 14C, the stiffener element 1442 can be disposedunderneath the flexible circuit 1440, e.g., on a face of the flexiblecircuit 1440 opposed to the face on which the components 1450 aredisposed, and can be permanently or semi-permanently attached thereto.The stiffener element can be implemented in any of the configurationsdescribed, and in particular, with either the internal housing/externalpotting arrangement or the external housing/internal pottingarrangement.

The stiffener element 1442 can be formed of any material, such aspolyamide or thin FR4, depending on construction of the PCB 1440. Inparticular, the material of the stiffener can be chosen to be more orless flexible than the PCB 1440. In one example, the stiffener element1442 can be a polyamide stiffener disposed on a back surface of aflexible PCB. In another example, the stiffener element 1442 can be FR4and can be substantially flush with respect to the flanges 1412 b-c. Inthis regard, the stiffener element can extend substantially the distancebetween flanges 1412 b-c and may not deform upon insertion into thespace 1420. The stiffener element can include surface features disposedon an edge thereof, with the edge facing one of the flanges 1412 b-c.The surface features can include a sawtooth profile (e.g., intersectingstraight lines at acute angles), or any other type of feature capable ofproviding an interference fit between flanges 1412 b-c.

FIG. 14D shows a cross section of the WCD at a point in time duringassembly/manufacture when the PCB 1440 is being inserted into theinternal space 1420 and prior to the application of potting 1414. Asshown, the stiffener 1442 contacts the flanges 1412 b-c of the housing1410 by virtue of the width w of the stiffener element 1442. Upon anapplication of force, the PCB 1440 and stiffener 1442 assembly can beinserted into the internal space 1420. In this regard, the stiffenerelement has a predetermined flexibility that allows for a certain amountof flexion, as shown in FIG. 14D. The flexion allows for the flexiblecircuit 1440 to be inserted within the internal space 1420 and canprevent the flexible circuit 1440 from being removed or fromaccidentally falling out once inserted. In this regard, the flexiblecircuit 1440 is held in place within the space 1420 by virtue of thewidth of the stiffener element 1442 and the distance between the flanges1412 b-c. Once inserted, the potting 1414 can be applied free of theconcern of improper positioning of the flexible circuit 1440.

FIG. 14E is a cross section of the WCD of after a potting material 1414has been applied subsequent to the WCD of FIG. 14D.

III. INNER/OUTER BANDS

FIG. 15A depicts a perspective view of a WCD 1500 according to anotheraspect of the disclosure. In this example, the WCD includes a housing1510 that includes an internal housing 1512 and an external housing1514. The internal housing 1512 can be similar to the internal housingdescribed above with respect to internal housing 1212, and the externalhousing can be similar to the external housing described above withrespect to external housing 1312. The internal housing 1512 can includeone or more windows 1516 that can allow electromagnetic radiation (e.g.visible and near-visible light) to pass therethrough, allowing it tofall incident upon components disposed within the housing 1510 andallowing EM radiation sources (e.g. visible light, RF, IR, etc.) withinthe housing to exit the housing.

FIG. 15B is an exploded view of the WCD 1500. As shown, the WCD caninclude internal housing and external housing 1512 and 1514. The WCD canfurther include a PCB 1540 and components 1550. Once the housings1512-1514 are assembled and the PCB 1540 and components 1550 areassembled within space defined between the housings 1512-414, pottinglayers 1502 and 1504 can be applied to seal the WCD at both sidesthereof to ensure a secure seal.

IV. INNER/OUTER BANDS WITH U SHAPED WINDOW

FIG. 16A is an exploded view of a housing 1610 and a PCB of a WCDaccording to one or more aspects of the disclosure. The WCD 1600comprises a housing 1610 with an integral inner wall and outer wall 1612and 1614. The housing can be made of any material, such as any materialdescribed above with respect to the internal/external housingstructures. In this example, the inner and outer walls 1612,1614 eachdefine a window in the shape cutaway portions 1616. The cutaway portionsare bounded on three sides by the walls 1612 and 1614 and unbounded atthe other side thereof. The cutaway portions 1616 can be aligned withone another to ensure transmission of radiation into/out of the housing1610. The space 1620 between the inner and outer walls 1612,1614 canreceive a PCB 1640, battery, components, etc.

FIG. 16B is a cross section of FIG. 16A along line B-B. As shown, theinner and outer walls 1612,1614 are directly connected by a floor 1618.The space 1620 is defined by the space between the inner and outer walls1612,1614 and the floor 1618.

FIG. 16C is a perspective view of the WCD with potting material 1630. Asdescribed above, the PCB, battery, and components can be disposed withinthe space. Once disposed therein, a potting 1630 can be provided atopthe components and within the cutaway portion 1616. The potting 1630 canbe transparent to allow for transmission of light through the cutawayportions 1616.

V. CHARGING BY CONCENTRATED LIGHT SOURCE

According to one aspect of the disclosure, the WCD can be charged by anexternal concentrated light source, e.g., laser light, laser diode, etc.In this regard, the photovoltaic device described above can include aconcentrated photovoltaic element (CPV) that is constructed and arrangedto receive concentrated light from the concentrated light source, e.g.,laser light from a laser diode, light from a light emitting diode (LED),etc., and converting the received concentrated light into an electriccurrent. The photovoltaic device can also generate power fromnonconcentrated light sources, such as office lighting and ambientsunlight. The electric current can be used to charge one or morebatteries stored within the housing of the WCD.

FIG. 17A depicts a cross section of a WCD employing charging byconcentrated light source according to one or more aspects of thedisclosure. In this example, the WCD 1700 can include a housing material1710. The WCD can include a PCB 1720 and a concentrated photovoltaiccell 1730. The WCD can be positioned adjacent a base assembly or basestation 1750. The base assembly 1750 can be connected to an externalpower source 1765 and can have internal circuitry 1760 to power one ormore concentrated light sources 1770, e.g., one or more laser diodesand/or one or more LEDs, disposed within the base assembly 1750. In thisexample, the concentrated light source 1770 comprises one or more laserdiodes.

The base assembly 1750 can define a first opening 1752 at one portionthereof to allow the concentrated light 1780 to exit the housing of thebase assembly 1750. As shown in the diagram of FIG. 17A, theconcentrated light 1780 is generated by the concentrated light source1770 and exits the housing of the base assembly 1750 via a first opening1752. The concentrated light 1780 then enters into the WCD by a secondopening 1712 in the housing of the WCD 1700 where it can fall upon theCPV 1730. Once the concentrated laser light falls upon the CPV 1730, theCPV 1730 can convert the incident concentrated light into a current thatcan be used to directly power one or more components within the WCDand/or can be used to charge one or more rechargeable batteries onboardthe WCD.

The concentrated light source 1770, as described above, can be any typeof light source that is arranged to generate concentrated light, such asan LED or a laser diode. The concentrated light can be any type ofconcentrated and/or coherent electromagnetic radiation, such as laserlight and/or LED light. The concentrated light can have any desiredintensity or wavelength, according to the characteristics of the CPV1730.

In one example, the source 1770 can be a 200 mW laser diode thatproduces red or green laser light. This can generate approximately 80 mW(or typically less) of power in the WCD where the CPV 1730 includes aplurality of groups of photovoltaics configured in series or in parallelwith one another. Each group of photovoltaics can include one or moreCPV cells. In another example, the CPV can include a single group ofphotovoltaics.

The base assembly 1750 described above can include additional componentsthat can interact with the WCD 1700. For example, the base assembly caninclude one or more antennas that can communicate according to one ormore wireless protocols, such as 3G, 4G, WiFi, Bluetooth®, NFC, or thelike, for direct or indirect wired or wireless communication with theWCD or mobile device. In addition to the charging methods above, thebase assembly can employ inductive charging techniques.

FIG. 17B depicts a cross section of a WCD employing charging byconcentrated light source according to another aspect of the disclosure.In this example, the concentrated light source 1770 comprises an LED.Further, the base assembly comprises an optical element 1790 positionedadjacent to the concentrated light source 1770 for focusing the LEDlight onto the CPV inside the WCD. The optical element 1790 can be anytype of optical element, such as a lens. The lens can be formed of anymaterial, such as glass, plastic, etc., and can be any type of lens,such as concave, convex, plano-concave, plano-convex, etc. In thisexample, the optical element 1790 includes a plano-concave, with theconcave portion facing the concentrated light source 1770. In theexample where the source 1770 is an LED, the LED emits light in manydirections. The optical element 1790 can focus the emitted LED light tofocus as much of the LED light as possible onto the CPV of the WCD. Theoptical element 1790 can be disposed at least partially or completelywithin the first opening 1752. In some implementations, the opticalelement may not be necessary due to LEDs with substantially focusedlight.

FIG. 17C is a perspective view of a base assembly 1750 and WCD 1700according to one or more aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the WCD1700 is in the shape of a ring and the base assembly 1750 includes apost 1754 for receiving the ring. The post 1754 can be cylindrical andcan be sized and shaped according to an internal diameter of the WCD inorder for the WCD to be received on an external surface of the post. Thefirst opening 1752 of the base assembly 1750 is formed on a portion ofthe post 1754 such that, when the WCD 1700 is stored on the post, thesecond opening 1712 can be aligned with the first opening 1752 to ensurealignment of the CPV and the concentrated light source. The baseassembly can receive/transmit power and/or data via externalinput/output 1795, which can be a DC power input, a USB input connectionor any other acceptable connection/form factor.

FIG. 17D depicts a perspective view of internal components of the baseassembly 1750 and WCD 1700 according to another aspect of thedisclosure. In this figure, the respective housings of the base assemblyand WCD have been omitted, thereby showing a plurality of concentratedlight sources 1770, optical elements 1790, and a plurality of CPVs 1730disposed on mounting substrates 1775 on a PCB. In this example, the WCDcan include a plurality of CPVs and the base assembly can include aplurality of sources. This allows for a greater current to be generatedduring charging and for faster charging times of the WCD. The CPVs andconcentrated light sources can correspondingly be disposed in a line,with a constant or variable pitch between respective elements. In thisregard, the optical element can include corresponding concavities withthe same pitch.

FIGS. 17E-F depicts other CPV configurations according to one or moreaspects of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 17E, the CPVs 1730 can bearranged in a 1×4 array, while FIG. 17F depicts the CPVs arranged in a2×2 array. In addition to the examples shown in the above figures, theWCD can include any number of CPVs according to any number of geometricconfigurations.

FIG. 17G is perspective view of a WCD and base assembly with a 1×3 CPVarrangement. As shown, the WCD can include a 1×3 array of CPVs and thebase assembly can include a corresponding 1×3 array of concentratedlight sources. As indicated by the arrow, a user can then rotate the WCDon the base assembly in order to align the respective first and secondopenings, as well as the CPV and concentrated light sources.

FIG. 18A depicts a cross section of a WCD 1800 employing charging byconcentrated light source 1870 according to another aspect of thedisclosure. In this example, the WCD includes an internal/externalhousing portion 1810 and an internal/external potting portion 1820, asdescribed above. In this regard, the base assembly 1850 includes a firstopening 1852, but is free of a second opening on the WCD. Theconcentrated light 1880 passes through the transparent potting portionand falls incident upon the CPV cell 1830. In this example, the sourcecan be a laser diode.

FIG. 18B depicts a cross section of a WCD employing charging byconcentrated light source according to another of the disclosure. Inthis example, the concentrated light source 1870 includes one or moreLEDs and the base includes one or more optical elements 1890 forfocusing the concentrated light 1880. The LEDs may be of differentwavelengths to provide power to two or more junctions in the triplejunction CPV cell.

FIG. 19A depicts a cross section of a WCD 1900 employing charging byconcentrated light source 1970 according to another of the disclosure.In this example, the WCD and/or the base assembly 1950 can employ one ormore magnetic and/or ferrous materials to ensure alignment between theconcentrated light source and the CPV cell. Such alignment can improvecharging efficiency of the WCD.

The base assembly includes a first opening 1952 and the WCD includes asecond opening 1912 to allow for concentrated light to fall incidentupon the CPV 1930. In this example, the second opening is formed on anexternal housing portion of the WCD. In this arrangement, the baseassembly can charge the WCD from an exterior of the WCD, rather than aninternal charging method as identified above.

The WCD can include a ferrous or other suitable (e.g. ferromagnetic)material 1920, such as steel, disposed within the housing 1910. In thisexample, the ferrous material is disposed in a space defined between aninternal housing and an external housing. The ferrous material cansurround the CPV.

The base assembly can include corresponding magnets 1960 that can causean attractive force between the WCD and the base assembly into anoptimal configuration for charging. The magnets can be disposed withinthe base assembly and can surround the concentrated light source. Themagnets 1960 can be formed of a rare earth material, such as neodymiumor any other acceptable material that provides a requisite magneticfield strength.

FIG. 19B depicts a cross section of a WCD 1900 b employing charging byconcentrated light source 1980 b according to another of the disclosure.The CPV 1930 b of the WCD 1900 is charged from an interior portion, suchas by a base assembly 1950 b with a post 1954 b. Similarly, the WCD caninclude a ferrous material 1920 b disposed within the housing 1910 b andthe base assembly 1950 b can include a magnet 1960 b.

FIG. 19C depicts a schematic diagram of magnets 1920 c,1960 c that canbe used in a WCD and/or base assembly, including a CPV 1930 d andconcentrated light source 1930 d, according to one or more aspects ofthe disclosure. As shown, the magnets and/or ferrous/ferromagneticmaterials can be axially polarized, with each having a respective northpole and south pole. In this regard, the WCD can have axially polarizedmagnets 1920 c with a south pole S facing toward the base assembly, andthe base assembly can have axially polarized magnets 1960 c with a northpole N facing toward the WCD. The attractive force between the north andsouth poles can ensure alignment of the CPV 1930 c of the WCD and thesource 1970 c base.

FIG. 1919D depicts a schematic diagram of magnets that can be used in aWCD and/or base assembly according to one or more aspects of thedisclosure. In this example, the base assembly includes axiallypolarized magnet 1960 d, with a north pole N facing toward the WCD. TheWCD can include ferrous steel 1920 d, with an attractive force betweenthe ferrous steel and the north pole of the base assembly magnet.

FIG. 19E is a perspective view of a WCD and a base assembly according toone or more aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the WCD 1900 e can bereceived by a post 1954 e of a base assembly 1950 e. The respectivemagnets 1960 e and/or ferrous materials 1920 e are shown in phantom toillustrate their positioning with respect to the WCD and base assemblydevices and the CPV 1930 e as well as the concentrated light source 1970e.

FIG. 20A is a cross section of a WCD 2000 engaged with a base assembly2050 according to one or more aspects of the disclosure. In thisexample, the magnets 2060 can surround the concentrated light source2070, and the WCD can include a ferrous steel 2020, CPV 2022, andbattery 2024 disposed within an internal/external potting 2014 of theWCD. The ferrous steel 2020 can be disposed on a face of the PCB 2040and can be encapsulated by the internal/external potting 2014. The baseassembly can include one or more optical elements 2090 for focusing theconcentrated light 2080.

FIG. 20B is a perspective view of a PCB 2040 b with a CPV 2030 b andferrous element 2020 b configuration according to one or more aspects ofthe disclosure. In this example, the ferrous element 2020 b comprises asteel ring that can surround a CPV 2030 b and can be disposed on the PCB2040 b.

FIG. 20C is a perspective view of a PCB 2040 c with a CPV 2030 c andferrous element 2020 c configuration according to one or more aspects ofthe disclosure. In this example, the ferrous element 2020 c comprises aplurality of rectangular bars disposed on the PCB. In this way, theferrous element 2020 c can be coated to be reflowed onto the PCB.

FIG. 20D is a perspective view of a magnet 2060 d and a concentratedlight source 2070 d according to one or more aspects of the disclosure.As shown, the magnet 2060 d can include a ring that can extend around acircumference of the concentrated light source 2070 d. The magnetic ringcan be attracted to the ferrous steel ring and/or the rectangularferrous steel examples set forth in 20A-C above.

In some examples, the WCD can be adapted to uniquely identify the wearerof the WCD using, for example biometric features unique to the user.

FIG. 21A is a schematic view of a WCD 2100 showing components used foridentifying the wearer of the WCD. As shown, the WCD 2100 can includeone or more infrared illumination sources 2110 and an infrared CMOSimaging device 2120. The finger 2190 can extend through the finger spaceof the WCD and the IR source 2110 can illuminate a portion of the skinof the finger 2190. The IR CMOS imaging device 2120 can receive lightthat has been reflected from the skin surface and produce an image ofthe skin of the finger 2190. As shown, the IR source 2110 and theimaging device 2120 are positioned near the interior surface of the WCD,e.g., the surface facing the skin of the finger. The IR illumination canpass through a window provided on the interior housing or can passthrough a transparent potting material.

During the imaging process, the WCD 2100 can be rotated about an axispassing through the center of the finger space and along thelongitudinal direction of the finger. In this regard, the imager 2120can capture a larger swath of the skin surface than if the WCD 2100 wereheld stationary with respect to the finger during the imaging process.

At the time of first use, or any time thereafter, the user can generatea reference capillary map in order to identify himself/herself as theauthorized user of the WCD. As described above, the user can rotate theWCD around the finger to capture image data of an analyzed section ofskin 2192 and on or more capillaries 2194 of the user currently wearingthe WCD. The image data can correspond to an overall analyzed section ofthe skin 2196 of the wearer. The image data of the capillaries can beused to generate a reference capillary map of the wearer, which can bestored in the memory, such as flash memory or EEPROM, of the WCD.

When the same user puts the WCD on his or her finger after generation ofthe reference capillary map, the WCD can capture image data of thewearer's skin surface that can be compared to the reference capillarymap stored in the memory. In this regard, the user need not rotate thedevice around the finger. Instead, the WCD can compare a subset of thegathered image data to a corresponding subset of reference capillarymap. If there a match, within a predetermine error tolerance, the WCDcan uniquely identify the wearer as an authorized user of the WCD and asthe unique individual who generated the reference capillary map. Onceauthorized, the wearer can have access to certain functions, features,data, or other content that is not otherwise available withoutauthorization. In another example, the identification can be a step in atransaction or other type of authorization, such as an electronicpayment, bank transaction, etc. If the gathered data does not match thereference capillary map, then the user may be prevented from accessingcertain features on the WCD.

Illustratively, the comparison process between sensed capillaries andsome or all of the capillary map can be implemented using basic patternrecognition algorithms (processes) instantiated in the electronics ofthe WCD. Such processes can rely on edge detection and similartechniques that should be clear to those of skill in the art and can besourced from various commercial vendors of biometric recognitionsoftware.

In another example, the illumination can include NIR illumination andcan project radiation into the skin of the finger. The reflected NIRillumination can then be analyzed to determine one or morecharacteristics of the blood, such as blood alcohol levels, bloodglucose levels, and blood oxygenation levels. In this regard, the WCDanalyzes the reflected radiation to identify wavelengths that wereabsorbed from the projected radiation by the blood of the user.Techniques and processed used in conjunction with commercially availablevenous oximeters (for example) can be employed to undertake certainreadings.

FIG. 22A is a perspective view of a user employing ECG monitoringaccording to one or more aspects of the disclosure. In this example, theuser can wear the WCD 2200 on a first finger 2210 of first hand 2220,and can touch a second finger 2230 of a second hand 2240 to an exteriorsurface of the WCD 2200. This can provide an electric pathway 2250through the body, as shown in FIG. 22B, allowing for the transmission ofelectrical current between distant portions of the body.

FIG. 22C is a perspective view of a WCD that can employ ECG monitoringaccording to one aspect of the disclosure. In this example, the WCD 2200includes an internal/external housing 2250 with a conductive pad 2260.The conductive pad 2260 can be electrically isolated from theexternal/internal housing 2250 of the WCD, thereby providing distinctand isolated electrical contacts on the WCD. The internal/externalhousing 2250 can be in electrical communication with the first finger2210 of the first hand, while the conductive pad 2260 can be inelectrical communication with the second finger 2230 of the second hand.In this regard, an electrical path 2250 is formed through the respectivehands 2220, 2240 and through the rest of the user's body, particularlythrough the chest. In this regard, the WCD can take various electricalmeasurements of the user, such as ECG. The ECG measurement can includemeasurements of the various waveforms, such as P-U waveforms. The WCDcan store such ECG data in a memory and/or can communicate the data to awirelessly connected mobile device. In another example, the WCD canemploy electrically isolated internal and external housings, such asthose described above. In this regard, the conductive pad may not beutilized, and the user can wear the WCD on a first finger and apply thesecond finger anywhere on the external housing.

The WCD can also serve as a monitor for those who are mobility impairedor who are prone to falls, such as disabled persons and/or retiredpersons. The accelerometer onboard the WCD detect a fall of the user viaa sudden change in acceleration data. The WCD, in conjunction with amobile device and/or one or more base stations positioned around thehome of the user, can determine the position of the user within thehouse. For example, the mobile device can employ GPS capabilities, andeither the mobile device or the base stations can use GPS in combinationwith WiFi signal strengths to determine the location of the user withinthe house. The WCD can then issue an alert, either directly onindirectly (via the mobile device or base station) to a third party thata fall has occurred. The alert can be a phone call, text message,e-mail, or any other type of communication. The third party can thentake appropriate measures to aid the fallen user.

The WCD can also monitor heart rate and/or temperature, in addition tothe other monitored characteristics described above. If any of themonitored characteristics is abnormal, e.g., measured parameters outsideof a predetermined threshold range, an alert can be sent to a thirdparty. In some examples, the third party can be a medical healthprofessional, such as a doctor, nurse, caretaker, etc. It is noted that,for those embodiments which can function as a cardiac monitor (e.g.,that measures electrocardiogram (EKG)), it can be necessary to establisha closed loop (e.g., for the electrical measurement of EKG) across theheart. As such, in some of those embodiments, a separate conductive pador other skin-contacting structure/probe can be coupled to the WCD sothat a user can pinch the pad with fingers on an opposite hand.

Since the WCD has the form factor of a ring, the WCD is designed to beworn over long periods of time by a user with little to no discomfort orinterference. In this regard, the WCD can monitor the above-described,monitored characteristics over long periods of time (e.g. weeks, months,etc.), and determine trends in the data. For example, the WCD canmeasure heart rate over a long period of time and determine a uniqueresting heart rate for a user. If the user's heart rate deviates fromthe resting heart rate, the WCD can be arranged to issue an alert to athird party. In one specific example, the WCD can use appropriateprocesses to analyze both the trends of monitored characteristics, aswell as current accelerometer data. In this way, if a person's heartrate deviates from a resting heart rate, but the accelerometer indicatesthat the user is exercising and/or engaging in strenuous activity thatprovides an equivalent workout, then the WCD may not issue an alert inthis circumstance.

FIG. 23A is a perspective view of the hand of a user in variouspositions employing the navigational features of the WCD. As describedabove, the WCD can communicate with a mobile device though one or morewireless communication protocols. The mobile device can include aprocessor and a memory and can execute a map application/process thatcan provide turn-by-turn walking or driving directions to the user basedon the user's GPS location. A portion of those directions can includeinformation regarding heading, distance to travel at that heading,waypoints, and the direction of next turn. By way of the wirelesscommunication, the mobile device can communicate one or more of piecesof information relating to directions, such as the heading. Once theheading is received the WCD, the WCD can give feedback to the userregarding the actual heading measured by the onboard magnetometer andthe heading set forth in the direction information. In one example, thefeedback can be haptic or physical feedback provided by one or moreactuators, such as the actuators 670 described above.

FIG. 23A depicts a user's hand in various positions of navigation, eachhand including a WCD worn thereon. In this example, the heading providedby the mobile device is the heading 2335, which represents the directionin front of the hand position 2330. In this regard, if the usergestures, e.g., points a ring finger, in the direction of the correctheading, the WCD 2300 can give feedback to the user indicating thecorrect heading. The feedback can include, for example, an LED indicator2310 showing a green visible light. In the example of hand position2320, the finger is gesturing in a direction to the left of the correctcourse 2325. In this way, the WCD 2300 can provide feedback to correctthe heading of the user. Such feedback can include illumination of anLED indicator showing (e.g.) a red visible light. Similarly, hand 2340is gesturing in direction 2345, which is to the right of thecorrect/appropriate direction. The WCD can provide (e.g.) a blueindicator informing the user to change heading.

FIG. 23B is a flow chart 2300B depicting a method of providing feedbackto a user according to one or more aspects of the disclosure. At block2310B, a user can establish a communication link between a WCD and amobile device. At block 2320B, the user can generate or request a set ofdirections at the mobile device, including information/data regardingheading, distance to travel at that heading, and the direction of nextturn. At block 2330B, the mobile device can transmit at least one of theinformation items/datum regarding heading, distance to travel at thatheading, and the direction of next turn. At 2340B, the WCD can take ameasurement of heading by measuring a heading associated with anexplicit gesture by the user's finger donning the ring. Such gesture caninclude pointing in a proposed heading of travel. At block 2350B, theWCD can compare the measured or proposed heading to the correct headingprovided by the mobile device. At 2360B, the WCD can provide feedback tothe user based on the comparison at 2350B, e.g., if the user isgesturing in the correct direction, a green LED indicator may appear. Inother examples, if the gesture is in a direction that does notcorrespond with the correct direction, a (e.g.) blue or red indicatorcan appear. In one specific example, indicators representing left andright course alterations can be different so a user can easily discern acorrect direction of travel.

FIG. 24A is a schematic diagram of a system 2400 for controlling anenvironment of a user according to one or more aspects of thedisclosure. As shown, the WCD can be connected, wired or wirelessly, toone or more appliances in the home of a user. The system 2400 caninclude a WCD 2410, a thermostat 2420, a wireless access point (e.g.,WiFi router) 2430, and a mobile device 2440. The WCD can be wirelesslyconnected (e.g., link 2415) to both the thermostat and the mobile deviceby any type of wireless communication protocol, such as Bluetooth. Theaccess point can be wirelessly connected to the thermostat and themobile device by any type of wireless communication protocol, such asWiFi. It is noted that a wide range of commercially availableappliances, thermostats, lighting controllers, home controllers, and thelike, can interface with the WCD using WiFi or anotherconventional/proprietary communication protocol, as described furtherbelow.

The WCD 2410 can include one or more temperature sensors. In oneexample, the WCD can include at least one internal facing temperaturesensor 2410 a and an at least one outward facing temperature sensor 2410b, as shown at FIG. 24B. The inward facing temperature sensor 2410 a canbe near the skin of a user when the user is wearing the ring, and cantherefore measure the skin temperature of the user. The outward facingtemperature sensors 2410 b can be disposed away from the finger of theuser, and can therefore be arranged to measure an ambient temperature ofthe room in which the user currently resides with sufficient thermalisolation from the user's hand and his/her body heat. In particular, inorder to ensure accurate ambient temperature measurements, the WCD canemploy a combination of multiple light sensors 2410 c and outward facingtemperature sensors 2410 b. In this regard, the temperature sensor 2410b associated with the light sensor 2410 c that receives the most lightcan be the most accurate, as it is most likely that this sensor isfurthest from the finger or palm of the user. In another example, theWCD can employ multiple outwardly facing temperature sensors 2410 b andcompare the temperature values of each to the inward facing sensor 2410a. The WCD can then select the most accurate temperature value from theoutward facing sensors.

Based on the measured skin temperature and measured ambient temperature,the WCD can automatically adjust the thermostat 2420 to alter theambient temperature of the room. In this regard, if a user's skintemperature is too high, the WCD can instruct the thermostat 2420 tolower the ambient temperature. Similarly, if the user's skin temperatureis too cold, the WCD can instruct the thermostat 2420 to raise thetemperature. The WCD 2410 can instruct the thermostat (and/or an HVACcontroller) directly, e.g., via a direct wireless link 2415, orindirectly, e.g., via one or more of the mobile device 2440 and theaccess point 2430. The WCD can also use historic temperature data todevelop trend temperature data.

In another example, the WCD can be part of a system 2400C forcontrolling home appliances. The system 2400C can include a WCD 2410C,one or more home appliances 2420C, and an access point 2430C. Such homeappliances 2420C can include, for example, a television, lights,speakers, microwave, range, stove, oven, etc. Each of the homeappliances can include an antenna that allows the respective homeappliances to communicate wirelessly with one or more access points2430C. In one example, the appliances can include a ScenSor DW1000 chipprovided by DecaWave. In this way, the locations of the appliances inthe room can be determined to an accuracy of approximately 10 cm. Thelocation of the WCD 2410C can also be determined, using theabove-referenced chip, or by using signal strengths of one or more basestations.

Having established the position of one or more home appliances and theuser in a room, the user can make a gesture to control such homeappliances 2420C. For example, the user can point at the TV (whilewearing the WCD) in order to turn it on/off. Knowing the position of theuser and the position of the TV, the direction of the gesture and thetype of gesture can indicate what action to take on which device. Theaccelerometer and/or magnetometer on the WCD can be used to create avector to the object to control, and a wireless packet can bet sent to awireless access point to control the respective appliance.

FIG. 24D is a flow chart depicting a method 2400D of controlling homeappliances according to one or more aspects of the disclosure. At block2410D, the locations of one or more home appliances in a room and/orhouse can be ascertained/determined. As described above, the appliancescan include a processor configured to identify location within a room.At block 2420D, the location of the WCD is determined. At block 2430D,the user can make a gesture toward a home appliance to exert controlover the home appliance. Such gesture can include a snap, a point, etc.At block 2440D, the accelerometer and/or magnetometer on the WCD can beused to create a vector to the object to control. At block 2450D, awireless packet can bet sent to a wireless access point to control therespective appliance. The access point can then issue the command to therespective appliance.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the hand of a user employing atwo-factor authentication technique according to one or more aspects ofthe disclosure.

As shown, the user 2500 is wearing a WCD 2510 and is approaching alocked door 2520 with an access node 2530 associated therewith. Theaccess node 2530 can be a wireless access node of a conventional orcustom arrangement, and can communicate wirelessly according to any typeof wireless protocol, such as WiFi or Bluetooth. As the user approachesthe door 2520, the WCD 2510 can initiate a communication link, e.g.,Bluetooth or WiFi, with the access node 2530. In this way, the WCD andthe access node can engage in one or more handshaking or queryprocedures to verify the WCD. For example, the access node 2530 candetect a MAC address, IP address, or other alphanumeric identifierassociated with the WCD and compare it to a list of authorized users.Such network-based communication processes should also be clear to thoseof skill.

Once the MAC address or other identifier is verified, the user canengage in a pre-defined gesture 2550 to complete the authenticationprocedure. The gesture 2550 can be any type of hand and/or finger motionthat can be performed by the user. In this regard, the accelerometer ormagnetometer can detect the gesture 2550 performed by the user andprovide the gesture information to the access node. If the providedgesture information corresponds with an authorized gesture stored at oraccessible by the access node, then the user may be grantedauthorization and the door can be unlocked. The authorized gesture canbe a general authorized gesture for all users, or can be a specificgesture authorized only for the particular MAC address.

In addition to a door, the method above can be use to gain access toother features, such as unlocking a mobile phone, unlocking a car door,starting a car. The authentication technique above is advantageous inthat it can eliminate extraneous authentication devices, such as keyfobs for a car, a door, keypads for entry control, etc., and can providea secure two-factor authentication technique to avoid unwanted access.More generally any type of keyless entry system (e.g. a keypad,card-reader, keyless lock, etc.) can be equipped with appropriatecommunication interfaces (RF, IR, etc.) to communicate with the WCD andoperate based on a gesture and/or proximity of the user using thetechniques described above. The WCD can also be employed generally inthis manner to activate or deactivate a residential or commercial alarmsystem—substituting, for example, for a key fob used for this purpose.

FIG. 26A is a schematic view of a charging apparatus for charging theWCD according to one or more aspects of the disclosure. As shown, amobile device 2610 can be received within a case 2620. The mobile device2610 can be electrically connected to the case 2620 via a port 2610 a onthe mobile device 2610 and a connector 2620 a on the case 2620. As shownin phantom, the case 2620 can include an integrated battery 2630 withinthe case that can charge the mobile device via the connector or cancharge a WCD, as will be described in greater detail below.

The integrated battery can be connected to an antenna 2640 disposed onor within the case 2620 that can emit an RF signal, as shown in theblock diagram in FIG. 26C. The RF signal can have a power of less than500 mW and a frequency of 13.56 MHz. The RF signal can be emitted in alldirections around the case such that it can be received by a WCD inproximity to the case.

FIG. 26B shows a WCD 2650 including an RF antenna 2660 and chargingcircuitry 2670. The RF antenna 2640 can be disposed within the housing2680 and can receive the RF signal emitted by the case 2620 and convertit to a current that can be used to charge the WCD battery (not shown).This can advantageously allow the user to charge the WCD withoutremoving the WCD from the finger. As shown in FIG. 26D, the charging canoccur whenever the WCD is in close proximity to the case, such as when auser talking on the phone or merely handling the phone. In anotherimplementation, the case can utilize inductive charging to charge theWCD. In this regard, the case can include an induction coil subjected toa predetermined current to produce a magnetic field. A correspondinginduction coil within the housing of the WCD can be subjected to themagnetic field to produce a current that can charge the onboard batteryin accordance with know electromagnetic principles.

FIG. 27A is a pictorial diagram and FIG. 27B is a block diagram of a WCDemploying flash storage according to one or more aspects of thedisclosure. As described above, the WCD 2700 can include a housing 2710,an antenna 2720, and an integrated circuit (IC) 2730 including a flashmemory 2740. The IC and the flash memory can be disposed within thehousing 2710. The flash memory 2740 can be powered by a battery 2750 andconnected to the IC 2730, which can be implemented as a system-on-a-chip(SoC) IC 2760. The IC can include Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) capabilityto allow for communication with another device. The flash memory can beused to store data, or can be used in any of the authenticationtechniques described above. The WCD can transmit data stored on theflash memory to another device 2780 via the BLE connection, or canreceive data and store the data on the flash memory.

FIG. 28A is a schematic diagram of one or more WCDs performing proximityfunctions according to one or more aspects of the disclosure. The WCDcan detect a strength of an RF signal received by its antenna, andcalculate a distance to the source of the RF signal using a ReceivedSignal Strength Indicator (RSSI). In one example, the RF signal can befrom a mobile device, an access point, or another WCD. The use of RSSIcan have many applications in proximity detection. For example, the WCDcan be placed on a child and can be connected to mobile device held by aparent. If the WCD travels a predetermined distance from the mobiledevice, the WCD can issue an alert to the mobile device, therebyalerting the parent that the child has wandered too far. In anotherexample, the parent can wear a first WCD and the child can wear a secondWCD. The first WCD can alert the parent that a child has wandered toofar.

A single user can wear a first WCD 2800 on a first finger on a firsthand and a second WCD 2810 on a second finger on a second hand. In thisregard, the user can measure the relative distance between the first andsecond fingers using an RSSI via a wireless link 2830 between the WCDs2800, 2810, such as a BLE connection. This can be used to measure anapproximate dimension of an object held in both hands or to estimate amid-air measurement.

In some examples, a first user can wear a first WCD 2800 and a seconduser can wear a second WCD 2810. The RSSI can be collected over a periodof time and the processor can analyze the data to develop trends orstatistics. For example, the RSSI data can indicate that the first andsecond users have spent a certain amount of time together and can serveas a relationship monitor.

The WCD can also detect when the first user and second user are holdinghands. FIG. 28B is a schematic diagram of one or more WCDs 2800, 2810performing proximity functions according to one or more aspects of thedisclosure. Similar to the ECG monitoring techniques described above, acircuit can be formed when the users hold hands 2840 (with therespective hands wearing the WCDs). The circuit can be used to transmitdata and/or electrical impulses between the respective WCDs via thecircuit. The WCDs can collect data regarding the length of time that theusers are holding hands and, in combination with the amount of timespent together, monitor the relationship of the two users. In addition,the WCD can collect data regarding communication between the users,e.g., e-mail, social media, etc. Based on all of the above factors, theWCD can develop a relationship score between respective WCD users, witha higher relationship score indicating more and more frequentinteractions.

FIG. 29A is a flow chart depicting a method of initiating gesture inputaccording to one or more aspects of the disclosure. The WCD can be usedto perform one or more commands, or to instruct another device, such asa mobile device, to perform one or more commands. Such commands caninclude, initiate sleep state of WCD, initiate sleep mode or defaultmode of WCD, powering off/on of the WCD, turning on/off an LED light ofthe WCD, powering on/off of a mobile device, placing a phone call on themobile device, etc. The user can establish one or more custom gesturesto initiate any of the commands above. For example, the user can selecta command to be customized from a number of commands. Once selected, theuser can perform a custom gesture to be associated with that command. Insome examples, the user can perform the custom gesture multiple times toallow the WCD to better identify the gesture and to develop errortolerances for registering the gesture.

At block 2910, the user can perform a first gesture. In this example,the user can perform a finger snap. At block 2920, WCD can register thegesture, via the accelerometer and/or the magnetometer. At block 2930,the accelerometer can send an interrupt signal to the processor. Atblock 2940, the processor can wake from a sleep or default system state.At block 2950, the processor can monitor the accelerometer for a secondgesture, at which point the user can perform a second gesture. If thesecond gesture matches a gesture in the gesture command database, thenthe WCD can perform the associated command. If not, the WCD can returnto the sleep state.

FIG. 29B is a chart 2900B showing an exemplary graph of acceleration vs.time as measured by the accelerometer of the WCD. As shown at peak2910B, the gesture can only be registered if it reaches a predeterminedacceleration threshold. If the gesture performed at 2910 meets thethreshold, it can proceed to block 2930 where the interrupt procedure isperformed.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a WCD 3000 employing an illustrativereset function and associated procedure/process. As shown, the WCD 3000can be removed from the finger of the user in order to initiate a systemreset of the WCD. In one example, the system reset can be initiated byspinning about a rotation axis R at a predetermined speed. Thepredetermined speed can be any value, and in one example is a rotationalvelocity. Upon performing the reset procedure at the predeterminedspeed, operation of the WCD 3000 can be interrupted and the onboardcomponents of the 3000 can power off, and revert to factory defaultsettings. Additionally, a series of movements can initiate a rest, suchas putting the ring on a table and turning it over several times.

FIG. 31A is a perspective view of a WCD including an LED indicatoraccording to one or more aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the WCD3100 can include an internal/external housing 3112 and aninternal/external potting 3114. The WCD can include an LED 3120 that canbe visible through the internal/external potting 3114.

FIGS. 31B and 31C are cross sections along line C-C of a WCD employingan LED indicator according to one or more aspects of the disclosure. Asdescribed above, the WCD 3100 can have an internal and/or externalpotting 3114 that can be transparent. This allows light sources withinthe housing to pass through the potting without changing, or withminimal change to, the optical properties of the light. In this way, alight source 3120, such as an LED, can be disposed on the PCB 3140 andcan be powered at least partially by battery 3130. The LED can beencapsulated by the potting 3112 and can project light through thepotting 3112. As shown in FIG. 31B, the LED 3120 can include a verticalLED, while 31C depicts a right angle LED. The vertical LED can projectlight along direction L1, while the right angle LED can project lightalong direction L2. When light is projected along L2, the light cantravel around a circumference of the finger of the user. Note that,according to aspects of the disclosure, the potting can be generallyadapted in whole or in part to condition, filter or modify thewavelengths and/or projection qualities of light by for example,embedding lensmatic components, applying light-diffusive additives,light attenuating filter materials, etc.

FIG. 32 is flow chart depicting a method 3200 of communicating with anear field communication (NFC) device according to one or more aspectsof the disclosure.

In some examples, the WCD can enable or disable NFC or change thefunctionality of a NFC device. For example, the WCD can itself engage inNFC with another computing device, or the WCD can be connected viawireless link to a computing device that engages in NFC with a differentcomputing device. In certain existing NFC devices, NFC will connect andbegin transmitting data as soon as it is queried. In the presentexample, NFC is enabled or begin transmitting data exclusively uponperforming of a pre-determined gesture. However, a variety of othertransmission processes can be implemented—for example a periodic chirpor handshake request by the WCD for communication with appropriatedevices.

At block 3210, a NFC capable device is provided. The device can be anytype of device, such as a laptop, tablet, mobile device, or dedicatedNFC device.

At block 3220, the WCD initiates a connection with the NFC device. Theconnection can be a direct connection via NFC, or an indirectionconnection via an intermediate device. At this point, no data has yetbeen transmitted between the WCD and the NFC device.

At block 3230, a user performs a predetermined gesture that isregistered by the WCD. The gesture can be any type of gesture, such as apoint, a snap, waving the hand, etc.

At block 3240, data transmission begins between the NFC device and theWCD.

In other examples, the user can perform another gesture to cease NFCcommunication. The gesture can be the same gesture as described above ora different gesture. Additionally, the user can remove the ring todisable the NFC. Upon donning the ring the user will be prompted by theapplication on the mobile device to re-authenticate by entering a PIN,whereby the proper PIN results in re-enabling the NFC functionality.

In yet another example, the WCD device employing NFC can be configuredon the fly to map to different data sets stored thereon. For example,the WCD device employing NFC can employ data thereon to make purchases,e.g., account information, data to access a building, e.g., a key fob,and data thereon to board public transportation, e.g., smart card, metrocard, etc. A user can perform a predetermined different gesture for eachof the above data sets to access the data. Once accessed, the WCD deviceemploying NFC can initiate a link with another computing device toinitiate a transaction, to open a door, or to board publictransportation, etc.

VII. OPTICAL ELEMENT AND ATTACHMENT FRAME

FIG. 33A depicts a perspective view of a WCD assembly 3300 according toone or more aspects of the disclosure, while FIGS. 33B-D depict explodedviews of the WCD assembly and 33E depicts a cross sectional view of theWCD assembly along A-A. In this example, the WCD assembly 3300 includesa WCD 3310, an attachment frame 3320, and an optical element 3330. TheWCD 3310 can be any of the WCD examples described above or below in thepresent application.

The attachment frame 3320 is releasably attached to the WCD 3310. Theoptical element 3330 is itself releasably attachable to the attachmentframe 3320. In this regard, the attachment frame 3320 provides anattachment interface between the WCD 3310 and the optical element 3330,thereby allowing the optical element 3330 to be at a fixed position inspace with respect to the WCD 3310 or any portion thereof. Theattachment frame 3320 can be made of any material, such as a metal,polymer, etc. Any type of polymer can be used, such as thermosettingplastics, thermoplastics, PETE, polycarbonate, polyethylene, LDPE, orany other type of plastic.

The attachment frame can be sized and shaped to fit along the curvedsurface of the WCD. For example, the attachment frame can have a curvedundersurface to allow a flush fit with the curved surface of the WCD.The attachment frame can have any shape, size, or radius of curvaturedepending on the size and shape of the WCD.

The attachment frame 3320 includes a first retaining a portion 3322 anda pair of second retaining portions 3324. The first retaining portion3322 defines a conical recess 3322 a configured to receive the opticalelement 3330, and provides a generally unoccluded pathway for light topass through the optical element and onto the WCD. Although depicted asdefining a conical or frustoconical shape, the recess 3322 a can be anyother shape depending on the shape of the optical element 3330. Each ofthe second retaining portions 3324 includes a respective locking feature3324 a. The respective locking features 3324 and a extend from thesecond it retaining portion 3324 toward one another such that a distancebetween the respective locking features is greater than a distancebetween the remaining portions of the second retaining portions. Asshown in FIG. 33E, the locking features engage with an inward-facingsurface 3350 of the WCD to ensure a secure fit. In one example, theinward-facing surface of the WCD may itself have one or more features3360 to engage with the locking features of the second retainingportions. Such one or more WCD features can include projected surfaces,recesses, or any other type a feature to allow for engagement with theattachment frame.

The optical element 3330 can be made of any material capable ofmodifying, e.g., focusing, incident electromagnetic radiation, such asvisible light, ultraviolet light, infrared light, or any other type ofelectromagnetic radiation. In some examples, the optical element 3330can be constructed from a polymer, such as any of the polymersidentified above. In another example, the optical element can be made ofglass, quartz, diamond, zirconium, or any other material capable offocusing light. More generally, the optical element 3330 is formed witha general outward appearance simulative of a faceted jewel with anappropriate tint or coloration (including clear/white). The term “jewel”can also be used in the alternative to describe the optical element 3330herein.

The WCD can include CPV cell 3312 that can be disposed directlyunderneath the attachment frame 3320 and optical element 3330 whenassembled. In other examples, the CPV can be positioned within thehousing and can receive electromagnetic radiation via a transparentpotting material. In this regard, incident light striking the opticalelement 3330 can be focused on to the CPV cell to allow for charging ofthe internal battery of the WCD. The optical element 3330 provides anincreased charging efficiency when compared to the CPV exclusivelyreceiving ambient light, since the ambient light is collected/gatheredfrom a wider field, and then focused onto the CPV by the optical element3330. In one example, a focal length of the optical element 3330 isdifferent than a distance between the optical element and the CPV. Forexample, the focal length can be greater than or less than the distancebetween the optical element and the CPV. This can be advantageous invarious aspects of the disclosure so as to avoid the light from focusingat a focal point directly on the CPV, which could cause damage to theCPV itself by over-concentrating the light at that single point of theoverall CPV surface.

FIGS. 34A-B depict a WCD assembly 3400 according to one or more aspectsof the disclosure. In this example, the attachment frame 3420 does notextend to an inward-facing surface of the WCD 3410, but is instead formentirely on the outside-facing surface of the WCD. In some examples, theattachment frame 3420 can be semi-permanently or permanently affixed tothe outward-facing surface of the WCD and can have a plurality ofretaining portions (mounting prongs) 3422 that at least partially definea recess 3422 a for receiving the optical element. As shown in FIG. 34B,the optical element 3430 is releasably attached to the attachment frame3420. This configuration can be particularly desirable, as it exhibitsornamental similarities to a traditional engagement ring while stillhaving the increased functionality of the WCD. Note that while notshown, the mounting prongs can include small hook ends springably retainthe optical element 3430 when attached, but that can release the opticalelement based upon a prying motion. A customized grasping tool (notshown) can also be employed to remove (and attach) the optical elementin this example.

VI. ENCLOSURE/PACKAGING

FIG. 35A depicts an enclosure or case 3500 for storing a WCD accordingto one or more aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the enclosure 3500includes a lid 3510 and a base 3520. The lid 3510 and base 3520 canengage via a recessed portion 3522 formed in the base 3520 to provide asubstantially sealed interior environment.

The lid 3510 can be cuboidal in external dimensions, or define any othertype of geometric shape that allows sufficient internal volume tocontain the WCD. For example a custom design shape (polyhedral, etc.)can be employed. In this example, the top portion 3510 is substantiallycuboidal as shown, including rounded edges rather than vertices. The lidcan be substantially transparent to allow viewing of the WCD whileenclosed therein, and can be made of any type of material, such as apolymer, glass, etc. The lid can also be mounted with pins on a hinge.

The base 3520 can be cuboidal, or any other type of geometric shape. Inthis example, the bottom portion is substantially cuboidal, includingrounded edges rather than vertices as shown. The bottom portion can bemade of any material and can be transparent or opaque.

The base 3520 can define a receptacle 3524 for receiving the WCD 3505.The receptacle 3524 can be sized and shaped to receive the WCD 3505 andin this example is semicylindrical, e.g., a portion of a cylinder. Theradius of the semicylinder can be slightly larger than a radius of theWCD in order to accommodate the WCD securely. The receptacle can linedwith a soft material to allow for a soft, safe material to receive theWCD, such as a silicone, thermoplastic, fabric, felt, or other material.

FIG. 35B is a cross sectional view of the assembled enclosure 3500 shownabove along the line B-B. As shown, when assembled, the WCD 3505 fitssecurely within the receptacle 3524. The interior of the lid 3510 can besized and shaped to conform to the shape of the WCD such that the WCD iscompletely surrounded and enclosed by the lid 3510, while in otherexamples, the lid 3510 can be sized and shaped to allow for airspace3514 between the lid surface and the WCD.

FIG. 35C is a cross section of the enclosure along line A-A. As shown,the lid 3510 can include an integral optical element 3512. The opticalelement 3512 can be a lens or any other device to modify, e.g. focus,light that passes therethrough. In this example, the optical element3512 can be disposed at a predetermined distance away from one or moreCPV cells 3507 disposed on the WCD 3505. This distance d can be measuredfrom the center of the optical element to the CPV cells 3507, and theoptical element can itself have a focal length f. In one example, thedistance d can be greater than the focal length f, such that the opticalelement focuses light at a point above the WCD in the enclosure. In thisregard, the light will not focus directly on the CPV cells disposed atthe surface of the WCD, thereby avoiding overheating or damage to theCPV cells. In other examples, the distance d can be less than the focallength, which can also prevent light from focusing at a surface of theWCD.

FIG. 36 depicts an enclosure 3600 including air vents 3650 according toone or more aspects of the disclosure. In this example, the enclosure3600 includes a plurality of vent holes 3650. The vent holes can bearranged on one or more faces of the lid. The vent holes 3650 canprevent overheating within the enclosure during charging of the WCD byallowing for circulation of convective air current. During shipping, thevent holes 3650 can be covered by an adhesive and/or adhering (peel-off)polymer sheet of conventional arrangement to prevent debris or moisturefrom entering the enclosure. The enclosure can include a lid 3610, base3620, receptacle 3624, and optical element 3612 as in the examples setforth above.

VII. SIZING

FIG. 37 depicts a method 3700 of sizing a finger according to one ormore aspects of the disclosure. At block 3710, the hand of a user can beprovided. The hand can be held still in mid-air or alternatively can beresting on a surface.

At block 3720, a first image is taken of the user's hand from a firstperspective. The image can be taken by any type of imaging apparatus,such as a CCD or CMOS camera, a digital camera, a camera associated witha mobile phone, etc. The first image can be stored in a memory.

At block 3730, a second image is taken of the user's hand at a secondperspective. In this regard, the second perspective is different fromthe first perspective so as to provide a distinct view in the secondimage of the user's hand. Block 3730 can be repeated any number oftimes. For example, a third image can be taken of the user's hand at athird perspective. In this regard, the third perspective is differentfrom both the first and second perspectives so as to provide a distinctview in the third image of the user's hand, and so on.

At block 3740, a size of the user's finger can be derived from theplurality of images taken above. In some examples, as few as two imagesmay be required, while in other scenarios, more than three images may berequired, depending on a number of circumstances including imagequality, selected perspectives, etc. The size can be derived from theplurality of images by any number of techniques, such as stitching theplurality of images together to generate a 3D typography of the fingers,then using photogrammetry algorithms to identify features on the fingersto determine the appropriate ring size. Furthermore, the touch screen ofthe smart phone can be used to measure the hardness of tissue bymeasuring the footprint/impression the fingers make while pressing afinger against the touch screen of a mobile phone.

FIG. 38 is a pictorial diagram showing a plurality of image perspectivesof a user's hand 3802. As shown, perspectives 3810, 3820, and 3830, aswell as the other perspectives, produce corresponding images (in astrip) 3812, 3822, and 3832. The images can be used to derive a size ofthe user's finger according to the methods described above.

FIG. 39 depicts a sizing tool for sizing the finger of a user. As shown,the tool 2900 can include a plurality of finger holes 3910-3950. Thetool 3900 can be made of any material, such as plastic, metal, orcardboard.

FIG. 40 depicts a sizing tool for sizing the finger of a user accordingto an alternate example. As shown, the tool 4000 can include a pluralityof finger holes 4010-4050. The tool 4000 can be made of any material,such as plastic, metal, or cardboard.

FIG. 41 depicts yet another alternate example of a sizing tool forsizing the finger of a user. As shown, the tool 4100 can include aplurality of finger holes 4110-4150. The tool 4100 can be made of anymaterial, such as plastic, metal, or cardboard. The thickness of thecard reflects the thickness of the ring to ensure proper fit.Additionally, the sizing tool is designed such that it can be easilymailed to the user with a standard mail service such as USPS.

Any of the tools 3900, 4000, or 4100 can be provided to a user prior topurchase of the ring in order to obtain accurate sizing informationprior to purchase. The tools include holes, as shown above, that cancome in a plurality of predetermined finger sizes to allow a user tomatch his or her finger size with the tool. The best match, e.g.,closest size that ensures a comfortable fit, can be identified using thetools. Alternatively, the tools can be provided at retail locations tosize the finger of the user on site prior to purchase. More generally, avariety of other sizing techniques, such as those employed byconventional jewelers can be employed according to further aspects ofthe disclosure.

In another embodiment, a packaging or enclosure of the WCD can include asizing diagram or interface embodied therein to allow a user to size afinger during the purchase process.

FIG. 42 depicts a method 4200 of monitoring activity according to one ormore aspects of the disclosure.

At block 4210, a user can don or place the WCD onto the finger to secureit in the wearing position.

At block 4220, a user can perform any number of daily activities, suchas running on a treadmill, walking, exercising, typing, etc.

At block 4230, the WCD, contemporaneous with block 3220, can use one ormore sensors to sense the activities of the user. For example, thesensors can detect location, speed, acceleration, orientation, heartrate, etc.

At block 4240, the WCD, or another computing device, can generate anentry in an activity log at the conclusion of a detected activity. Ifthe activity detected by the sensors has a profile that has not yet beenidentified, the WCD can prompt the user to identify the activity. Forexample, the user can identify profiles such as “Run in Central Park,”“Typing,” “Run on Treadmill,” etc. The WCD can associate the identityprovided by the user with the activity profile identified by the sensorsand store the identified activity in the WCD memory, or any othermemory. Later, if the user performs the same activity and the WCDdetects the activity profile as being similar to a saved activity, theWCD can identify the activity while the user is performing the activityand save the activity in the activity log. Each of the activitiesperformed can be saved in the overall activity log and can be stored ina memory on the WCD, or other device, for later viewing.

FIG. 43 depicts a method 4300 of determining whether a user is wearinggloves according to one or more aspects of the disclosure. At block4310, a user is provided while wearing the WCD, where such user may ormay not be wearing gloves.

At block 4320, one or more light sensors on board the WCD can detectsurrounding ambient light. Such light sensors could include, forexample, a CPV or other light sensitive element.

At block 4330, one or more additional measurements maybe made. Suchadditional measurements can include, for example, an ambient temperaturemeasurement and or a proximity measurement, e.g., detecting proximity ofan object to the WCD via reflected electromagnetic radiation in the formof IR light.

At block 4340, a measured ambient temperature and ambient lightmeasurements are compared to predetermined thresholds. If the ambienttemperature measurement is above a certain predetermined temperaturethreshold and the ambient light measurement is below a certainthreshold, it can be determined that the user is wearing a glove overthe WCD.

At block 4350, a measured proximity and ambient light measurements arecompared to respective predetermined thresholds. If the proximitymeasurement is below a certain distance threshold (e.g., determines anitem is in close proximity to the WCD) and the ambient light measurementis below threshold, it can determined that the user is wearing a gloveover the WCD. In any of the above examples, an intensity of LEDindicators of the WCD can be adjusted according to a detected ambientlight using an appropriate algorithm or process that compares theambient light to a scale and adjusts a desired driving current/voltagefor the LEDs according to a predetermined formula (e.g. a proportionaladjustment using an adjustment coefficient) or scale (e.g. a lookuptable). For example, where there is abundant ambient light (e.g.,detected ambient light above a predetermined threshold), the intensityof the LED indicators can be increased. In the same way, where there islittle ambient light (detected ambient light below a predeterminedthreshold), the intensity of the LED indicators can be decreased.

In one example, the WCD can detect whether it is removed and orinstalled on the finger of the user. In this regard, as mentioned above,the WCD can have inward-facing light sensors, CPV, or temperaturesensors. When a user installs a ring on his finger the measure ofambient light may decrease or the temperature may increase. Such changesin ambient light and/or temperature can be detected by one or moresensors onboard the WCD and a determination can be made that the userhas removed and or installed the ring on his finger.

FIG. 44 depicts a method 4400 of securing data onboard the WCD accordingto one or more aspects of the disclosure. At block 4410, a user may donthe WCD on the finger. At block 4420, a user may execute an applicationon a mobile device, or other computing device, that can be previouslyassociated and authenticated with the WCD. At block 4430, the user canenter an authorization code into the application running on the mobiledevice, such as a PIN code. At block 4440 the mobile device may transmitthe authorization code to the WCD by any means of communication, suchas, wired, wireless, Bluetooth, NFC, etc. At block 4450, the userwearing the WCD can now be again authenticated and associated with theWCD and can be granted access to certain functions and/or data storageof the WCD. At block 4460 a user may remove the WCD. At block 4470 theWCD can detect that it is removed such as bio detection (including e.g.,biometric identification) techniques described above with respect toinward facing sensor changes, temperature changes, or heart ratedecreasing to zero. At block 4480, the authorization code previouslystored on the WCD can be automatically deleted upon detection of removalto avoid unauthorized access to such information by a subsequent weareror other querying party. Further or alternatively, additionalinformation can be automatically deleted upon removal of the WCD, forexample any data and or instructions stored on the onboard memory of theWCD such as personal information, banking information, confidentialinformation, or other sensitive data.

VIII. TIMEPIECE SYSTEM

FIG. 45A is a timepiece system 4500 according to one or more aspects ofthe disclosure. As shown, the timepiece system 4500 can include aconventional timepiece 4510 and a timepiece computing device (TCD) 4520.The TCD can be any shape, and in this example is in the shape of acylinder. The radius can be significantly greater than a height of theTCD to provide the shape of a puck. The TCD can have one or morestructural and/or functional components, and can be similar to the WCDdescribed above with respect to hardware features, components, sensors,etc. Although depicted as cylindrical, the TCD can have any shapedepending on the shape of the conventional timepiece. For example, wherethe timepiece has a rectangular or square face, the TCD can similarlyhave a rectangular or square profile.

A top surface 4520 a of the TCD can include a pressure sensitiveadhesive (PSA) layer 4522 to allow for adhesion of the TCD to the undersurface of the timepiece 4510. The TCD 4520 can have a radius orcircumference that does not exceed radius or circumference of the faceof the conventional timepiece so as not to be seen when a user iswearing the timepiece system 4500. The TCD can enhance the conventionaltimepiece with many of the features described above with respect to theWCD such as, heart rate sensing, temperature sensing pedometer, activitysensing, gesture sensing and control, without having to alter the lookof the conventional timepiece.

FIG. 45B is a bottom view of the TCD. As shown, the TCD can include abattery 4540, any printed circuit board 4550 with one or more componentsattached thereto (not shown) such as motion sensors, power managementcircuitry, charging circuitry, etc. As with the WCD, the printed circuitboard of the TCD can be overmolded 4560. The overmold can be transparentor substantially transparent to allow electromagnetic radiation to passthrough to be incident upon one or more components of the TCD.

As shown, the TCD can include a light pipe 4524 around the perimeterthereof. The lightpipe 4524 can be substantially annular in shape andcan be formed in part by the overmold of the TCD. The lightpipe can beconstructed from a conventional transparent or translucent moldablematerial (e.g. acrylic, polycarbonate, etc), and can be arranged tofocus ambient light onto a CPV disposed onboard the TCD for additionalcharging capability. The optical arrangement/geometry of the light pipecan be implemented using skill in the art to achieve the desired opticalcharacteristics. In another example, excess heat generated by the TCD orexcess body heat emitted from the skin of the user can be converted toelectrical energy via a thermoelectric (TEG) module, such as a Peltiermodule, disposed onboard the TCD.

The TCD can also include any number of CPV cells, either on a topsurface or bottom surface, to allow for charging. For example, a CPVcell can be placed on the underside of the TCD to allow for docking witha charging/docking station.

FIG. 46 depicts a WCD 4600 with a pair of LED indicators 4610-4620disposed at an inward-facing portion of the WCD. As shown, the WCD 4600can include a pair of transparent regions 4640-3650 and an opaque region4630. The LEDs 4610-3620 can be positioned under the transparent regions4640-3650 to allow light from the LEDs to exit the WCD. In one example,the LEDs 4610-3620 can create a subtle diffuse glow to the skin toprovide a desirable visual effect to user. In another example, a userfeedback LED can be placed at an inward facing surface and a second canbe placed at an outward facing surface of the WCD. Depending on thecircumstances, one of the LEDs may be disabled to save battery life. Forexample, LEDs that are facing away from a user e.g. facing down or awayfrom user's line of sight, may be disabled. As described above, the WCDcan determine its orientation based on onboard sensors, such as themagnetometer, accelerometer, GPS, etc.

FIG. 47A is a system for generating and managing alerts according to oneor more aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the system can include aWCD 4710A, one or more networks 4720A, and one or more server computers4730A according to one or more aspects of the disclosure. The WCD 4710Acan communicate directly and/or indirectly with the server 4730A via thenetwork 4720A. In this regard, data generated and/or stored at the WCD4710A can be transmitted to the server 4730A and vice versa. In oneexample, such data can include biometric data pertaining to a userwearing the WCD that is detected and stored by the WCD.

FIG. 47B depicts a block process diagram for generating and managingalerts according to one or more aspects of the disclosure and FIG. 47Cis a flow chart depicting a method for generating and managing alertsaccording to one or more aspects of the disclosure.

At block 4710C, and as shown at process block 4710B, the user isauthenticated with respect to the WCD. In this regard, a single user canbe associated with a single WCD and can be associated with apredetermine identifier, such as an alphanumeric number. If the user isnot authenticated or the authentication process is not conclusive, theWCD may invite the user to retry authentication at block 4715C until theuser is successfully authenticated. In some examples, the WCD maytimeout the authentication process, lock the WCD, or place the WCD insafe mode in the event of too many unsuccessful authentication attemptsas a security measure.

The user can be authenticated according to any of the authenticationmethods described in the present application, such as via a uniquecapillary map, a unique ECG profile, etc.

If the user is authenticated, biometric data can be transmitted to theserver at block 4720C. The captured biometric data 4720B can betransmitted to the server via network 4720A, 47222B

Once received at the server, the biometric data can be aggregated,sorted, categorized, or profiled at block 4730C and as shown at processblock 4730B. In this regard, a profile (corresponding to thealphanumeric identifier) may be created at a database at the server thatstores data for a particular user. The profile can store transmittedbiometric data, as well as other data, such as user gender, height,weight, age, family history, disease information, location, etc.

In some examples, identifying information may be removed from the dataand/or not transmitted to allow for anonymity and/or to comply withregulations regarding transmission of medical data. The transmittedbiometric data can be normalized in order to comply with predetermineddata requirements in order to be added to the profile. In one example, aminimum amount of data may be required in order to be considered viablefor association with the profile. The biometric data of a single profilecan be aggregated, or in other examples multiple profiles can beaggregated simultaneously.

Aggregation of the user's biometric data into a single profile allowsfor the profile to be visualized or analyzed according to any number ofmethods. For example, a timeline can be created showing biometric dataover a period of time. The data can also be synthesized or analyzed tocalculate trend data, or other mathematical features.

Although only one WCD is depicted, it is contemplated that a pluralityof WCDs can exist, with each WCD corresponding to a distinct user (anddistinct alphanumeric identifier) and therefore resulting in a pluralityof distinct profiles at the server. Accordingly, each of the distinctusers/WCDs may be authenticated separately according to the methodsdescribed herein.

At block 4740C, once the transmitted data has been associated with theuser profile, the updated profile can be correlated with one or moreother profiles stored at the server as shown as process block 4740B. Theprofiles may be correlated according to any number of correlationstandards, such as correlating users with similar traits such as age,gender, location, profession, or by any other data stored at the server.In some examples, one or more of the traits can be used to make such acorrelation. The biometric data from the one or more users that arecorrelated with one another can be combined to form a group profile. Thegroup profile can be the aggregation, average, range, or sum ofindividual profiles that form the group profile. For example, for aparticular group profile, a range of resting heart can be generated bytaking the maximum and minimum values of resting heart from theindividual profiles. In other examples, an average (and standarddeviation or standard deviation of the mean) can be generated for eachtrait, such as average resting heart rate, average active heart rate,average blood pressure, average blood sugar, average skin temperature,ECG profiles, as well as any other features capable of being detected bythe WCD as described above.

At block 4750C, transmitted biometric data can be compared to theestablished values from the group profile. In this way, if a user'sheart rate deviates by a predetermined threshold (such as bypredetermined magnitude or standard deviation), an alert can begenerated at process block 4750B. The comparison process can occur atthe server after transmission of the biometric data. In another example,the group profile data can be transmitted to the WCD for comparison atthe WCD. This advantageously allows the comparison to be made where theWCD cannot establish a network link. The group profile can be updated ona continuous basis or a predetermined time interval or at eachtransmission of biometric data.

At block 4760C, the alert is transmitted to the WCD and displayed to theuser at process block 4760B. The alert can indicate that the user'sbiometric data has deviated from the profile group and may advise theuser to seek medical attention. In another example, the server candirectly contact a medical health professional. In the example whereblock 4750C occurs at the WCD, transmission of alert information fromthe server may not be necessary.

The alert at the WCD can be any type of audio or visual indicator, suchas an LED, haptic feedback, audible alarm, etc. The indicator may alsoinvite the user to rest, make an appointment with a medical healthprofessional, recommend a particular medication, or suggest certainphysical activities that may health condition that caused the alert.

As shown in FIG. 47B, the authentication 4710B, aggregation 4730B, andcorrelation 4740B can occur at server 4730A, which can include aprocess, memory, and any other features of a general purpose computer.The authentication 4710B, aggregation 4730B, and correlation 4740B canaccess a database stored at the memory, where profiles, group profiles,and biometric data can be stored.

FIG. 48A is a method for variable sampling according to one or moreaspects of the disclosure. As described above, the processor module ofthe WCD can determine (e.g., based on identified physical activities,routine pattern, and/or time) a frequency at which one or more sensorsin the sensor modules should operate.

At block 4810A, one or more sensors of the WCD may take one or moremeasurements. For example, the WCD can detect temperature, heart rate,acceleration, as described above.

At block 4820A, the WCD can calculate an activity level of a user. Forexample, the WCD can compare to a number of stored activity profiles (asdescribed above) stored by the user, or can compare the sensormeasurements to sensor threshold values corresponding to differentactivities, such as sitting, running, sleeping etc. In one example, theWCD detect acceleration values over time to generate an activity levelfor a particular time period.

At block 4830A, the WCD may compare the identified activity level to apredetermine activity threshold value. In one example, the WCD maycategorize the detected activity as either a high level activity or alow level activity. High level activities can include running, swimming,biking etc., while low level activities may include sitting, standingstill, or sleeping.

At block 4840A, the WCD can set a first sample rate for high levelactivities and at block 4850A, the WCD can set a second sample rate forlow level activities. The first sample rate can be a shorter timeinterval than the second sample rate, resulting in more data beingdetected and generated during a set amount of time while the user isactive. This allows for increased power efficiency of the WCD while alsoproviding the advantage of generating more data when a user is moreactive, thereby providing added biometric data for later analysis.

In another example, the sample rate can be scaled according to activitylevel. For example, the sample rate can be scaled to be directlyproportional to heart rate. This results in a shorter time interval forsampling (more frequent data gather) for running than for walking.

As activity level changes, the method above can be repeated a pluralityof times at certain intervals in order to quick or abrupt activitychanges.

FIGS. 48B and 48 c are graphs depicting one or more aspects of thesample method of FIG. 48A. As shown in FIG. 48B, the WCD may determine auser is engaging in a high level activity by detecting accelerationvalues that are above a predetermined threshold value. In this regard, ashorter time interval (more frequent data gathering) can be set. Asshown in FIG. 48C, the user is engaging in a low level activity sincethe acceleration values are below a predetermined threshold. A longersample rate (less frequent data gathering) can be set in this instance.

FIG. 49 a diagrammatic representation of a machine in the example formof a computer system 4900 within which a set of instructions, forcausing the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologiesdiscussed herein, may be executed. Specifically, FIG. 49 shows adiagrammatic representation of a machine in the example form of acomputer system within which instructions (e.g., software or programcode) for causing the machine to perform any one or more of themethodologies discussed herein may be executed. In alternativeembodiments, the machine operates as a standalone device or may beconnected (e.g., networked) to other machines. In a networkeddeployment, the machine may operate in the capacity of a server machineor a client machine in a server-client network environment, or as a peermachine in a peer-to-peer (or distributed) network environment.

The machine may be a server computer, a client computer, a personalcomputer (PC), a tablet PC, a set-top box (STB), a personal digitalassistant (PDA), a cellular telephone, a smartphone, a web appliance, anetwork router, switch or bridge, or any machine capable of executinginstructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be takenby that machine. Further, while only a single machine is illustrated,the term “machine” shall also be taken to include any collection ofmachines that individually or jointly execute instructions to performany one or more of the methodologies discussed herein.

The example computer system includes a processor (e.g., a centralprocessing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a digitalsignal processor (DSP), one or more application specific integratedcircuits (ASICs), one or more radio-frequency integrated circuits(RFICs), or any combination of these), a main memory, and a non-volatilememory, which are configured to communicate with each other via a bus.The computer system may further include graphics display unit (e.g., aplasma display panel (PDP), a liquid crystal display (LCD), a projector,or a cathode ray tube (CRT)). The computer system may also includealphanumeric input device (e.g., a keyboard), a cursor control device(e.g., a mouse, a trackball, a joystick, a motion sensor, a touchscreen, or other pointing instrument), a storage unit, a signalgeneration device (e.g., a speaker), and a network interface device,which also are configured to communicate via the bus.

The storage unit includes a non-transitory machine-readable medium onwhich is stored instructions embodying any one or more of themethodologies or functions described herein. The instructions may alsoreside, completely or at least partially, within the main memory orwithin the processor (e.g., within a processor's cache memory) duringexecution thereof by the computer system, the main memory and theprocessor also constituting machine-readable media. The instructions maybe transmitted or received over a network via the network interfacedevice.

While machine-readable medium is shown in an example embodiment to be asingle medium, the term “machine-readable medium” should be taken toinclude a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized ordistributed database, or associated caches and servers) able to storeinstructions. The term “machine-readable medium” shall also be taken toinclude any medium that is capable of storing instructions for executionby the machine and that cause the machine to perform any one or more ofthe methodologies disclosed herein. The term “machine-readable medium”includes, but not be limited to, data repositories in the form ofsolid-state memories, optical media, magnetic media, or othernon-transitory machine readable medium.

IX. CONCLUSION

It should be clear that the WCD and TCD arrangements described accordingto various aspects of the disclosure provide a highly versatile anduseful item of wearable electronics that is comfortable and convenientto wear, conveniently charged, and weatherproof for all-purpose andall-condition wearing. Various options for style and appearance can beimplemented, as well as a variety of storage options. The functions andstructure of the device lend themselves to both a ring version and awrist-worn version. All versions are designed for long-life with minimalmaintenance, and are adaptable to interoperate with a variety ofnetworked devices including computers, smartphones, home controllers,security systems, and virtually any other device capable ofcommunicating over a wireless link—including another WCD or TCD.

The foregoing has been a detailed description of illustrativeembodiments of the invention. Various modifications and additions can bemade without departing from the spirit and scope of this invention.Features of each of the various embodiments described above may becombined with features of other described embodiments as appropriate inorder to provide a multiplicity of feature combinations in associatednew embodiments. Furthermore, while the foregoing describes a number ofseparate embodiments of the apparatus and method of the presentinvention, what has been described herein is merely illustrative of theapplication of the principles of the present invention. For example, asused herein various directional and orientational terms such as“vertical”, “horizontal”, “up”, “down”, “bottom”, “top”, “side”,“front”, “rear”, “left”, “right”, and the like, are used only asrelative conventions and not as absolute orientations with respect to afixed coordinate system, such as the acting direction of gravity. Notealso, as used herein the terms “process” and/or “processor” should betaken broadly to include a variety of electronic hardware and/orsoftware based functions and components. Moreover, a depicted process orprocessor can be combined with other processes and/or processors ordivided into various sub-processes or processors. Such sub-processesand/or sub-processors can be variously combined according to embodimentsherein. Likewise, it is expressly contemplated that any function,process, application, and/or processor here herein can be implementedusing electronic hardware, software consisting of a non-transitorycomputer-readable medium of program instructions, or a combination ofhardware and software. Also, while a variety of visible and near-visibleradiation sources are described as LEDs, it is expressly contemplatedthat other types of sources can be employed according to aspects of thedisclosure—for example plasma discharge sources and bioluminescentsources, as well as sources that are based upon developing technologies.Electronic circuits and RF components can similarly be based onalternate and/or developing technologies. Accordingly, this descriptionis meant to be taken only by way of example, and not to otherwise limitthe scope of this invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of identifying an authorized user of a wearable intelligent ring computing device, the wearable intelligent ring computing device having an imaging module within an interior portion of the intelligent ring, the imaging module comprising an illumination element and an imaging element and being connected to a computing component, at least a portion of the imaging module being exposed by a window positioned in an exterior portion of the intelligent ring, the method comprising: donning, on the finger of a user, the intelligent ring, in a manner so that the window of the intelligent ring is adjacent a skin surface of the finger of the user, the skin surface being proximate an underlying cluster of capillaries; illuminating, by the illumination element of the intelligent ring, a portion of the skin surface of the skin of the finger of the user, in a manner to irradiate the capillaries; imaging, by the imaging element, the portion of the skin surface of the user to generate at least one first image of the underlying cluster of capillaries; generating, by the computing component of the intelligent ring, a reference capillary map corresponding to the user based at least in part on the at least one first image; and identifying, by the computing element, the authorized user of the intelligent ring, the identifying being based at least in part on the generated reference capillary map.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the computing component comprises: a processor, the processor for receiving raw data and using the raw data to determine one or more of interim and results data, the interim and results data comprising one or more of a condition of time, a condition of travel, a condition of activity, a medical condition, and a condition of sleep of a user; a memory, associated with the processor, the memory for storing one or more of raw data as well as interim data, and final results data; a plurality of sensors associated with one or more of the processor and the memory, the plurality of sensors for determining one or more of a heart rate, a pulse, a number of calories burned, a direction of travel, a speed of travel, a distance travelled; an orientation of movement; and a quality of sleep of a user so as to generate the raw data; a communications module, associated with the processor, the communications module for communicating one or more of the raw data, interim data, and results data over a network to an associated server or client device; and a rechargeable battery, the rechargeable battery for suppling power to the processor, the memory, the sensors, and the communications module.
 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the intelligent ring comprises a thickness, the thickness ranging from about 1.5 mm to about 3 mm.
 4. The method of claim 3, further comprising rotating the wearable intelligent ring computing device about a circumference of the finger of the user during the illuminating and imaging steps.
 5. The method of claim 4, further comprising: imaging the portion of the skin surface of the finger of the user to generate at least one second image of the underlying cluster of capillaries; and comparing the at least one second image to the reference capillary map in order to authenticate the user.
 6. The method of claim 2, wherein the capillary map is stored in the memory.
 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the identifying of the authorized user is for the purpose of authorizing the user, and the authorizing comprises comparing one or more of the at least one first image to the reference capillary map.
 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the communication module of the intelligent ring is configured for communicating with a remote computing device.
 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the remote computing device is one or more of a mobile telephone or a third-party server or desktop computing device.
 10. The method of claim 9, wherein access to the one or more mobile telephone or third-party server or desktop computing device is a result of the authorizing.
 11. The method of claim 10, wherein once authorization is complete, data is transferred from the intelligent ring to the remote computing device via the communications module.
 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the transferred data comprises one or more medical data or biometric data.
 13. The method of claim 10, wherein the authorizing is for the purpose of conducting a transaction.
 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the transaction comprises a payment or other bank transaction.
 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the illuminating comprises Near-Infrared (NIR) illumination.
 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the illuminating comprises broad spectrum light illumination for the purposes of determining one or more characteristics of the blood.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the determining of the one or more characteristics of the blood comprises at least one of determining a blood alcohol level, a blood glucose level, and a blood oxygen level.
 18. The method of claim 15, wherein the broad spectrum light illumination is for the purpose of determining an ECG profile.
 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the ECG profile is used for the purpose of authenticating the user. 